Statement on the Suspension of Asylum Claims for Syrian Refugees

The suspension of asylum claims not only violates their basic human rights but also places them at heightened risk of exploitation, homelessness, and further trauma. Additionally, the return of Syrians to Syria should always be voluntary and never forced, as such actions risk further endangering those who have already suffered profoundly.

Recent actions by some governments, such as Germany’s increased deportations and Denmark’s reclassification of Damascus as "safe," raise serious concerns about the erosion of refugee protections. In Lebanon and Iraq, deportation campaigns have been intensified, often targeting registered refugees with no legal recourse. These developments highlight the need for a renewed global commitment to upholding refugee rights.

The global community has a moral and legal obligation to protect refugees under international law, including the 1951 Refugee Convention. Policies that erode these protections set a dangerous precedent, weakening the collective commitment to safeguard the world’s most vulnerable populations. For Syrian refugees, who often have no viable option to return home due to ongoing conflict, repression, and economic instability, forced returns are not just unjust but potentially life-threatening.
We urge governments to uphold their responsibilities and ensure that asylum systems remain accessible, fair, and just for all individuals seeking protection. Refugees are not a burden but individuals with hopes, dreams, and the potential to contribute significantly to their host societies when given the opportunity.

As an organization dedicated to supporting Syrian refugees in Canada, we see firsthand the resilience, determination, and contributions of these individuals. We call on the international community to stand in solidarity with Syrian refugees and work together to find humane and sustainable solutions to the ongoing refugee crisis.

The Syrian Canadian Foundation remains committed to advocating for the rights of refugees and providing support to those in need. Now more than ever, we must reaffirm our shared humanity and responsibility to protect those who have lost everything.