In the wake of the overthrow of Syria’s former leader Bashar al-Assad, the Germany has resumed its initiative to encourage Syrian nationals to voluntarily return to their homeland. According to internal documents from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (Bamf) seen by Der Spiegel, financial support is being made available to facilitate this process.
Reintegration Programme Reinstated
The German Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) has added Syria to its Return and Reintegration Assistance Programme (REAG/GARP). This initiative, jointly funded by federal and state governments, offers financial assistance to Syrians seeking to return to their homeland. Eligible applicants, including individuals in the asylum process or those required to leave Germany, can receive support to cover travel costs, such as airfare.
In addition, returnees can receive a one-off payment of up to €1,700. Families are eligible for assistance capped at €4,000. The programme also includes provisions for additional support for medical expenses incurred upon return, with up to €2,000 available per person for the first three months after arrival in Syria.
A Shift in Policy
Direct financial aid for Syrians returning to their country had been halted since 2012, with Syria deemed too dangerous due to its prolonged civil war. Officials were reluctant to allow federal funds to flow into the regime of Bashar al-Assad, who had faced widespread international condemnation.
With Assad’s fall in December 2024 following a successful rebellion and the establishment of an interim government, the security situation in Syria is reportedly improving. This has prompted a reassessment of policies, with insiders viewing the inclusion of Syria in the REAG/GARP programme as a significant development.
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Support Mechanisms and Challenges
The financial support provided under the programme is complemented by the involvement of non-governmental organisations, which disburse funds in Syria to ensure transparency and appropriate use. This mechanism avoids directly transferring money into the country, maintaining oversight and addressing concerns about misallocation.
Previously, state governments with independent return programmes bore the financial and logistical burden of organising such initiatives. With Syria’s inclusion in the federally supported programme, states are expected to receive partial reimbursements for these costs, streamlining the process.
Future Implications
The resumption of voluntary return programmes has raised questions about the possibility of future deportations. While deportations to Syria have been suspended for over a decade due to safety concerns, the improving security conditions and re-establishment of air links might pave the way for a policy shift.
However, such decisions remain politically sensitive and will depend on further stabilisation within Syria. The new transitional government’s ability to maintain order and rebuild trust with the international community will likely influence Germany’s stance on compulsory returns.
Context of the Policy Shift
The fall of Assad marks a significant turning point for Syria. After years of conflict and devastation, the transitional government faces the enormous task of rebuilding the country and repatriating millions of displaced Syrians. Germany, hosting one of the largest Syrian refugee populations in Europe, is among the nations seeking to support this process.
While the financial incentives provided under the REAG/GARP programme aim to assist individuals and families in reintegrating into their home country, they also reflect Germany’s broader migration management objectives. Voluntary return programmes are often seen as a way to reduce pressure on asylum systems while promoting orderly migration.
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