Interior Ministry launches bonus campaign for Syria returnees

Austria's Interior Ministry is introducing a financial incentive program to encourage Syrian refugees to voluntarily return to their home country. The initiative, running from July to September, offers payments to individuals still in the asylum process or basic care who have subsidiary protection, as well as to recognized asylum seekers.

Asylum seekers with subsidiary protection will be eligible for 3,000 euros upon voluntary return, a significant increase from the previous 1,000 euros offered to recognized asylum seekers. The ministry stated that voluntary return is preferred for cost reasons and to support Syria's reconstruction efforts, while also relieving pressure on Austria's social systems. Since a change in government in Damascus approximately 18 months ago, around 2,000 Syrians have left Austria, some voluntarily and others through forced deportations.

Interior Minister Gerhard Karner announced the program, emphasizing its importance for both Syria and Austria. While the ministry expects a positive impact, Karner declined to estimate the number of expected returnees, noting that the program's success will be evaluated after three months. Information campaigns, including proactive mailings to eligible individuals, are planned to ensure comprehensive communication about the initiative. The ministry also reported that since the fall of the Assad regime, about 13,000 asylum procedures for Syrians have been reopened, with 4,400 individuals having their protection status lowered or revoked.

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For cost reasons alone, a voluntary return is to be preferred. Therefore, we are now launching the three-month campaign. This is important for Syria itself in terms of reconstruction, but also for Austria to relieve the systems.