Austria reviews refugee status for Syrians

Austria is reviewing the status of Syrian refugees who arrived in the past five years, following reports that some may lose their protection status due to changes in Syria’s security situation.

Austria is reassessing the status of Syrian refugees who arrived within the past five years, Chancellor Karl Nehammer announced on Thursday. This follows media reports that some refugees had been informed via letters that they "no longer need to fear political persecution."

Nehammer, a conservative currently attempting to form a coalition government amid criticism from the far-right, referred to the fall of Bashar al-Assad on 8 December, asserting that Syria’s security situation should be re-evaluated to permit deportations.

His caretaker government has since clarified that the initial emphasis will be on voluntary returns, offering 1,000 euros (£818) to those willing to go back. Austria is also among several European countries that have suspended the processing of asylum claims from Syrians.

"Austria is now reviewing the eligibility for protection of Syrians who have been in the country for less than five years," Nehammer posted on X.

Under Austrian law, refugee status may be revoked within five years of being granted in certain circumstances. Syrians make up the largest group of asylum seekers in the country.

Nehammer’s People's Party (ÖVP) has adopted a tough stance on immigration, leading the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) to accuse it of appropriating its policies.

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