Germany expands voluntary repatriation program for Syrian refugees

DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – The German government is set to expand its financial assistance program for Syrian refugees who wish to voluntarily return to their home country, Interior Ministry spokesperson Lars Harmsen announced during a briefing on Friday.

” Of course, there are already people who want to return to Syria. We support that,” Harmsen stated.

He added that the initiative will be broadened to encourage more refugees to voluntarily repatriate. However, he cautioned that the unpredictable situation in Syria makes it too early to anticipate large-scale returns.

Under the program, the German government will cover travel expenses, providing €200 per adult and €100 per child. Additionally, returning refugees will receive financial support amounting to €1,000 per adult and €500 per child, with a family cap of €4,000.

The initiative reflects Germany’s efforts to address the challenges of long-term refugee settlement while considering the aspirations of Syrians who hope to rebuild their lives in their homeland.

Germany hosts one of the largest Syrian refugee populations in Europe, following an influx during the peak of the Syrian civil war. The country’s policies have provided refuge to hundreds of thousands, granting access to housing, education, and integration programs.

The voluntary return program is part of Germany’s broader strategy to manage the long-term challenges of refugee integration. While the program offers financial incentives, it also reflects ongoing concerns about the safety and viability of resettlement in Syria, where conditions remain volatile in many regions.

By Jwan Shekaki