Following the recent overthrow of the Assad regime by Syrian rebels, both Germany and Austria have taken significant steps regarding asylum applications for Syrians.
Austria has announced an immediate halt to ongoing asylum procedures for Syrians residing in the country. The interior ministry in Vienna has also revealed plans to explore the possibility of deporting individuals back to Syria. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner stated, 'I have instructed the ministry to prepare an orderly repatriation and deportation program to Syria.' Additionally, family reunions have been put on hold. Approximately 95,000 Syrians currently live in Austria, with nearly 13,000 asylum requests submitted this year.
