Merz calls on Syrian refugees to return

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called on Syrian refugees living in Germany to return to their country and take part in rebuilding efforts following years of conflict and widespread destruction.

Speaking on the issue, Merz said that, over the coming three years, a significant proportion of Syrians currently residing in Germany could be expected to return. He indicated that this projection was also in line with views expressed by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

“In the long term, over the next three years, it is expected that around 80% of Syrians currently in Germany will return to their homeland,” Merz said.

He added that many Syrians themselves were keen to go back, motivated by a desire to help reconstruct their country and to live in conditions of safety, freedom and dignity.

Germany has hosted hundreds of thousands of Syrians since the outbreak of the Syrian conflict in 2011, making it one of the largest destinations for Syrian refugees in Europe. The question of return has remained closely tied to security conditions, political developments and reconstruction efforts inside Syria.

1. Merz’s remarks come amid broader European discussions over migration policy and the long-term future of displaced populations.