German State Interior Minister calls for deportation of Syrian refugees

Roman Poseck, the Interior Minister of the German state of Hesse, called for the organization of regular deportation flights to Syria over the long term, arguing that the majority of Syrian refugees residing in Germany should return to their country in the coming years.

Poseck, a member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), stated that Germany has successfully organized regular deportation flights for Afghan refugees, adding that the country should reach a similar stage with regard to Syria.

Exempting integrated individuals and skilled professionals

The German minister stressed the importance of distinguishing between different categories of Syrian refugees. He explained that individuals who are well integrated into German society, as well as professionals whose skills are needed in Germany such as doctors and nurses should be allowed to remain, particularly if they hold German citizenship.

By contrast, he emphasized that criminals and individuals who pose a threat to public security and society should be among the first to be subject to deportation measures.

Financial incentives for voluntary return

According to the German Press Agency (dpa), Poseck also called for accelerating voluntary return programs for Syrians, proposing financial incentives of up to €10,000 to help returnees rebuild stability and establish sources of income upon their return to Syria.

He argued that this measure would help reduce the financial burden on Germany's social welfare system while simultaneously supporting reconstruction efforts inside Syria.

Broader review of protection status

The Hesse Interior Minister's remarks come as the German authorities intensify their review of the protection status granted to Syrians, amid a significant increase in decisions to revoke protection compared with last year, particularly in cases involving the commission of crimes within Germany.

According to German data, around 500,000 Syrians are currently living in Germany under various forms of legal protection, with approximately 58,000 of them residing in the state of Hesse alone.