Mirz faces angry reactions due to his statement about Syrian refugees
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is facing intense criticism after claiming that 80% of Syrians in Germany could return home within three years, a statement that has sparked political and public controversy.
The remark was made during a press conference in Berlin following a meeting with Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Merz suggested the idea reflected al-Sharaa’s wishes, but the Syrian leader later denied making such a request, creating confusion and raising the risk of a diplomatic dispute.
The statement quickly drew backlash across Germany. Opposition politician Luise Amtsberg criticized the proposal as unrealistic and insensitive, pointing out Syria’s fragile security situation and the fact that many Syrians are already well integrated into German society.
Criticism also came from within the government. Anke Rehlinger warned that setting specific targets could create expectations that cannot be met. Meanwhile, Roderich Kiesewetter highlighted that many Syrians work in essential sectors such as healthcare, and their departure could create serious labor shortages.
Germany is home to around 1.2 million people of Syrian origin, many of whom arrived after the civil war began in 2011. While deportations resumed in 2025 after the fall of Bashar Assad, experts say returning such large numbers in a short time is not realistic due to legal, logistical, and humanitarian challenges.
The debate has also angered many Syrians living in Germany. Migration expert Nahla Osman called the plan impractical, estimating it would require hundreds of deportations daily. She argued the proposal appears more like a political signal amid growing pressure from anti-immigration forces such as the Alternative for Germany.
Despite government incentives encouraging voluntary return, only a small number of Syrians have chosen to go back. The controversy is expected to have political consequences, especially with national elections approaching in the next three years.