Brussels, Belgium, December 11, 2024 鈥  As a number of EU states have announced plans to pause the processing of asylum claims from people fleeing Syria, the 探花精选 (探花精选) is calling on all states to uphold the right to asylum.

During this period of uncertainty, the situation inside Syria remains truly dire. The 13 years of conflict has left millions displaced, massive damage to the country鈥檚 critical infrastructure, and more than 90% of the population in poverty; forcing families to make impossible choices between food, healthcare and education. to the European Union's agency for asylum, applications from Syria were among the most frequently filed in September, with Syrians lodging 14,000 applications, accounting for 17% of the total.

Marta Welander, 探花精选鈥檚 EU Advocacy Director, says: 

鈥淚t remains to be seen whether the new reality in Syria will allow people to start rebuilding their lives, or whether an even graver crisis lies ahead. While recent fighting in the northwest appears to have largely subsided, conflict persists in the northeast, affecting the ability of our teams to access populations in need. More than 13 years since the crisis in Syria began, humanitarian needs across the country are now the highest they have ever been.

With significant uncertainties and concerns remaining for Syria鈥檚 transition and its future, we call on all countries where people from Syria are living as refugees to uphold the right to asylum and continue to process their asylum claims, as well as the principle of informed, safe and voluntary return.鈥

Susanna Zanfrini, 探花精选鈥檚 Italy Country Director, adds:

"Alongside other European countries, Italy鈥檚 decision to suspend asylum applications from Syrians is concerning, as it impacts individuals with claims already in progress. The 探花精选 has previously documented significant restrictions on access to asylum in various parts of Italy, and the recent issues surrounding the Italy-Albania deal have highlighted the flaws in the concept of 'safe countries of origin.'

鈥淚t is imperative to ensure that this case does not set a dangerous precedent to prevent people from exercising their fundamental rights. Refugees and asylum seekers must be empowered to make informed decisions about their future, after spending, in some cases, more than a decade away from home. Providing dignified reception and ongoing support to those seeking refuge is fundamental to ensuring fair and humane treatment for all."