
As uncertainty looms over Syria’s future following the potential fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, several countries including Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Denmark have opted to temporarily halt the processing of asylum applications from Syrian nationals. Belgium has also taken similar action promptly.
Secretary of State Nicole de Moor stated, “Refugee status is not always permanent. Should the situation in Syria see sustainable improvements, I will instruct the CGVS (the relevant government agency) to reassess the refugee status of Syrians who have been granted asylum here in the past five years. However, it is premature to consider that now.”
De Moor emphasized that Belgium will not revoke the residency of those who are well-integrated, such as individuals who work, speak fluent Dutch, and have school-aged children in the country. She also mentioned that Belgium is prepared to assist those who wish to return voluntarily, highlighting the nation’s established programs for such guidance.
Over the past decade, approximately 35,000 Syrians have been granted protection in Belgium. Thus far in this year, Syrian nationals have submitted the highest number of asylum applications, totaling 4,725 through October.
Austrian authorities have also initiated plans for a deportation program. However, the European Commission cautioned on Monday that expectations for a swift and seamless return of Syrian refugees to their homeland should be tempered.













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