Soon, 40,000 Syrians could be left without asylum. What does the Syrian community in Vienna think about deportations and how does it see the future of the war-torn country? The “Krone” spoke to two affected people.
While Germany is currently discussing paying out 1,000 euros in “seed money” to Syrians willing to leave, the Austrian Interior Ministry is already preparing an orderly repatriation program. The exact details are still pending, but 40,000 Syrians could have their asylum status revoked. But what do the Syrians living in Vienna actually think of it?
After the jubilant atmosphere, there is great uncertainty in the community about what will happen next in the war-torn country. Returning is not a problem at the moment for Sawra Kerdia (45). As an Ismaili, she is part of the endangered minority there. Her husband was tortured to death by the Syrian regime. “Austria gave us security and support. We have a stable life here,” says the mother of three.
Abdulhkeem Alshater, head of the “Free Syrian Community of Austria”, has his hands full at the moment. He has been here since 2015 and has quickly learned the German language. After only three months of preparation, Alshater immediately passed the final exam as a painter and decorator and continues to work in the profession to this day. He is also committed to democracy and the integration of Syrian refugees in Austria and helped organize the hotly debated demo on the Ring on Sunday, among other things.
His club openly speaks out against the Assad regime, against Islamism and extremism in all forms. Following the devastating floods in Lower Austria in September 2024, the Free Syrian Community mobilized hundreds of volunteers to support the affected people locally.
How does he view the suspension of asylum status and the preparation of deportations? “I don’t think that’s okay because Syria is not stable. It will take a long time before the situation becomes clear,” says Alshater. However, he himself can very well imagine returning to his old home, but only if two points are met. Syria’s future must be free and democratic. “But at the moment it is still too early. We have to wait and see,” said the 43-year-old.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
