Jens Spahn, Vice Chairman of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) parliamentary group, has come under heavy criticism from politicians and the media in Germany for proposing to offer Syrian refugees €1,000 and a plane ticket to return to their country. The proposal has been described as “irresponsible,” “ridiculous,” and “populist,” with critics emphasizing the ongoing instability and conflict in Syria.
Reactions: Politicians Voice Strong Criticism
- Dirk Wiese (SPD): Calling the proposal “unethical” and “hasty,” Wiese accused Spahn of using the idea as political propaganda. Speaking to NDR, he remarked, “If it were up to Spahn, he’d put everyone on a plane today.”
- Franziska Brantner (Greens Co-Chair): Brantner highlighted the continuing uncertainties in Syria and reminded Spahn of the ongoing conflicts, stating, “We hope there won’t be a transition from one radical regime to another.”
- Michael Roth (SPD): Labeling the proposal as “populist,” Roth argued in an interview with Der Spiegel that Spahn’s suggestion echoed rhetoric from far-right parties like the AfD.
- Joachim Hermann (CSU): The Bavarian Interior Minister took a cautious stance, pointing out that many Syrian refugees had successfully integrated into German society. He said, “It’s wrong to treat everyone the same.”
Media Reactions
Spahn’s proposal has also faced strong pushback in the German press:
- ARD (Georg Schwarte): Schwarte criticized the proposal as “ugly,” suggesting that discussions should focus on rebuilding Syria, support, and diplomacy. He noted that many Syrians contribute significantly to Germany, particularly in critical sectors like healthcare.
- Handelsblatt (Dietmar Neuerer): Neuerer called the idea “utter nonsense and ridiculous,” arguing that it would only benefit far-right parties.
- Deutschlandfunk (Luise Sammann): Sammann deemed the proposal “irresponsible,” pointing out that many Syrians have successfully integrated into German society and that a return policy is misguided.
Syria’s Situation and the Contributions of Syrians in Germany
Germany is home to approximately one million Syrians, including 165,000 who have obtained German citizenship. The Federal Ministry of Health reports that 6,000 Syrian doctors work in German hospitals. Critics have emphasized the contributions of Syrians to society, warning that discussions about repatriation could undermine the successes of integration efforts.
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