Assad's fall: Why many Syrians want to stay in Germany

Assad's fall: Why many Syrians want to stay in Germany

Osnabrück, Deutschland - It is a scenario that still looks like a distant dream in the minds: Bashar al-Assad, the notorious ruler of Syria, was swept off the stage. This has rekindled discussions that are as explosive as it is controversial - the return of Syrian refugees. But a wave of returns, as some are expected from some? Nights full of speculative dreams, says Prof. Jochen Oltmer, migration researcher from Osnabrück. He warns of too high expectations and compares the situation with the post -war Yugoslavia. "Hardly anyone wanted to go back," explains Oltmer and refers to the bonds of the Syrians to Germany. These are as deep as an ancient oak forest, grown through education, work and friendships. Source: Welt .

oltmer points out that around 250,000 Syrian children learn in German schools and that Germany has long since called their home. A total of 40 percent of naturalizations in 2023 are Syrians, a clear indication that they have built up a new home here.

integration instead of return

While you are plans to feverishly return programs in politician offices, Oltmer advocates using the great potential of Syrians in Germany. Companies, schools, communities - they all put a lot of passion into integration. "To endanger these successes would simply be crazy," said the professor. The uncertainties of these debates are particularly affected by those who have long since felt integrated, like a sharp north wind in the otherwise warm spring.

Return idea - a dangerous wrong way?

The uncertainty due to return plans could be counterproductive, the migration researcher continues. Instead, the focus should be on the use of the talent that the Syrian migrants bring. These have become a valuable enrichment for society over time.

until even a fraction of the Syrians actually want to return to their country of origin, it could take years. MSN confirms these impressions and emphasizes that without substantial stability in Syria, the option of a return remains more theoretically than practical. The dream of a peaceful return trip remains exactly: a dream.