The ECRE policy note outlines the EU’s crucial role in Syria’s transition while ensuring protections for Syrian refugees in Europe. It emphasizes the need for EU coordination, legal adherence, and best practices from the Ukrainian response, advocating for temporary visits and cautioning against premature repatriation. The note underscores the importance of maintaining protections amidst ongoing uncertainties in Syria.
The European Council on Refugees and Exiles (ECRE) has released a significant policy note analyzing the European Union’s (EU) role in facilitating a transition in Syria while ensuring the maintenance of international protections for refugees in Europe. The note advocates for EU coordination regarding the treatment of Syrian refugees and emphasizes adherence to international standards regarding the postponement, review, or cessation of asylum applications. Additionally, it highlights best practices derived from responses to displacement caused by the conflict in Ukraine, particularly regarding temporary return visits without impacting refugee status.
The fall of the al-Assad regime has sparked hope among millions of Syrians who have endured decades of conflict, prompting many who are currently outside Syria to contemplate returning home. In this fluid political landscape, the EU and European governments hold crucial responsibilities in fostering a positive transition, ensuring that any engagements are inclusive and accountable. While there is readiness for EU involvement, officials caution against premature announcements regarding refugee returns that could provoke fear and disrupt strategic objectives. Thus, policies concerning the treatment of Syrians with protection status in Europe must align with long-term transitional goals.
The ECRE policy note warns that although some EU member states have chosen to delay the examination of asylum applications, such postponements should not extend indefinitely. The situation in Syria is expected to remain unsettled, necessitating that EU member states ensure applicants are not indefinitely left in uncertainty. The note aligns with recommendations from the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) to suspend negative decisions during this period, a practice previously enacted by EU states in situations involving uncertainty. Furthermore, guidance from the European Commission is deemed crucial for fostering a cohesive response across the EU, ensuring consistency in approach.
Additionally, the policy note advocates for the establishment of a unified EU framework permitting temporary visits to Syria for beneficiaries of international protection, as requested by several member states. It posits that such visits should not jeopardize protection status or influence future cessation decisions. Drawing from successful practices observed during the Ukrainian displacement response, the note asserts that allowing beneficiaries to briefly reconnect with families and properties can facilitate better managed returns in the future.
It is essential to note that EU and international laws impose stringent conditions regarding the cessation of international protection status, which must not be violated. An in-depth legal examination can be referenced in ECRE’s legal note. The current situation in Syria fails to meet the fundamental requirements necessary for revocation of status. Discussions regarding the review of protection statuses are considered untimely and may induce anxiety among Syrians residing in Europe. When such reviews take place, they should automatically incorporate an assessment of pertinent alternative protection statuses, rather than requiring the initiation of new applications.
Lastly, while the policy note urges EU member states to prepare for the voluntary return of Syrian nationals, it also acknowledges warnings issued by the UNHCR against executing large-scale repatriations to Syria. The full policy note is accessible for detailed insights.
The ECRE policy note underscores the EU’s vital role in supporting the transitional phase in Syria while safeguarding the protections of Syrian refugees in Europe. It highlights the importance of maintaining a careful balance between facilitating possible returns and ensuring the rights and statuses of individuals remain intact during this complex transition. Through proposed frameworks for temporary visits and adherence to established legal standards, the EU can guide a harmonious response that respects the dignity and needs of affected populations.
Original Source: ecre.org
