Austria’s Controversial Move to Deport Syrian Refugees Sparks Fear and Uncertainty

Amid rising anti-migrant sentiments in Austria, Syrian refugees face uncertainty as the government seeks to revoke refugee status for 2,900 individuals and halt family reunifications. Following a violent incident, proposals for stricter checks on asylum seekers have emerged, causing distress within the community. Financial incentives for voluntary return have also been introduced, emphasizing the challenges refugees face in their quest for stability.

In Austria, Syrian refugee Khaled Alnomman, who has worked hard to integrate since arriving a decade ago, faces distress as Austrian authorities seek to revoke his family’s refugee status. Alnomman, fluent in German and employed as a bricklayer, feels particularly anguished as his youngest child was born in Austria, and the others identify more as Austrian than Syrian. This upheaval followed a recent violent incident involving a Syrian, fueling anti-migrant sentiments.

The situation for Syrians has worsened since December when several European nations halted asylum requests following the ousting of the Assad regime. Austria, hosting nearly 100,000 Syrians, has escalated its response by stopping family reunifications and moving to revoke the refugee status of approximately 2,900 individuals. The Austrian authorities are reportedly planning a structured repatriation and deportation program for Syrians, despite acknowledging the legal impossibility of such actions at present.

Conservative Interior Minister Gerhard Karner has proposed legalizing random home checks for Afghan and Syrian asylum seekers post-attack. Additionally, the government aims to address migration concerns ardently, influenced by pressure from the far-right Freedom Party, which emerged prominently in recent elections. The coalition is considering expanding the suspension of family reunifications to refugees from all backgrounds, increasing anxiety among the asylum-seeking community.

Asylum experts suggest that although the revocation letters do not guarantee immediate deportation, they have instilled significant fear within the Syrian community. Alnomman stated, “We can’t sleep at night. All Syrians are afraid now” when reflecting on the impact of these policies. Ahmed Elgrk, separated from his family for four years, expressed the pain of being denied family reunification after preparing for their arrival.

Furthermore, the Austrian government has offered financial incentives for Syrians to return voluntarily, with nearly 100 individuals accepting this offer thus far. The ongoing anti-migrant climate and the government’s stringent measures have created an environment of uncertainty and fear among refugees, who are desperate to claim their rights and reunite with their families.

The situation for Syrian refugees in Austria has deteriorated significantly, with government actions to revoke refugee status and halt family reunifications escalating fear and uncertainty among the community. The political climate has shifted towards more stringent measures against migrants, driven by recent violent incidents. The emotional toll on individuals like Khaled Alnomman and Ahmed Elgrk highlights the struggles faced by those seeking security and a sense of belonging in Austria.

Original Source: www.france24.com