Urgent Calls to Resume Processing Syrian Asylum Claims Amid Continuing Uncertainty

The UK has faced widespread criticism for pausing Syrian asylum applications, leaving thousands in limbo. Charities emphasize the need for case-by-case assessments, as the uncertainty surrounding security in Syria continues to impact those seeking refuge.

Ministers are facing mounting pressure to resume processing asylum applications from Syrians, as fresh statistics reveal that over 7,000 individuals remain in limbo. The UK government suspended decisions on these claims back in December, coinciding with the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. Five months on, those seeking asylum are still left without any clarity on when their applications will be evaluated.

Charities, including the Refugee Council, describe the current state as an "indefinite limbo" and are advocating for a return to processing claims, suggesting that assessments be made on a case-by-case basis. A source from the Home Office explained that the decision to pause was taken "while we assess the current situation," labeling it a necessary measure due to the lack of stable, objective information about the risks faced by individuals returning to Syria.

According to the latest figures released on Thursday, a staggering 7,386 Syrians were still waiting for an initial decision on their asylum claims by the end of March. The Assad regime, which had been in power for years during the civil war, was toppled by an insurgent offensive led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). While HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa has been named interim president of Syria, the overall situation remains precarious, with HTS still deemed a terrorist organization by the UK government.

Back in December, Conservative politicians suggested that many Syrian asylum claims stemmed from threats posed by the Assad government, implying that those individuals could potentially return to Syria when it was safe to do so. However, Haytham Alhamwi, chairman of the Syrian British Consortium, pointed out that while many fled from Assad, others might still have valid reasons to fear returning, particularly with many advocating for democratic reforms in Syria that are far from guaranteed.

Since the halting of asylum claims, the number of applications from Syrian nationals has plummeted by 81%. Nevertheless, a noticeable 299 Syrians arrived in the UK via small boats during the first three months of the year, accounting for 5% of all arrivals in that period.

Typically, asylum seekers are not allowed to work while their applications are processed. Instead, the government provides temporary accommodation and financial assistance for those who would otherwise face hardship. Jon Featonby, chief policy analyst at the Refugee Council, expressed concern that the ongoing situation not only trapped Syrians in an endless waiting period but also placed an ongoing financial burden on taxpayers, with over 5,500 Syrians relying on government-funded accommodations, including more than 2,130 residing in hotels.

Amid this backdrop, a Kurdish Syrian individual named Azadi—who arrived in the UK in June 2023—highlighted the personal toll of this situation, indicating that he values the support provided but longs to gain employment and contribute. "I stay at home a lot of the time... I am not progressing, so it is stressful," he stated.

A new Syrian government has struck a deal with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) but Azadi remains skeptical of its safety for Kurds, citing history and ongoing conflict as reasons for his reluctance to return.

Compounding the uncertainties, the pause also applies to Syrians already granted refugee status, whose right to apply for permanent residency has been adversely affected. Despite still being allowed to work, many struggle with the implication of temporary status, which complicates their ability to secure employment and housing.

Leen Albrmawi, who arrived in the UK in October 2019 and applied for indefinite leave to remain last year, spoke of the "collapse" of her life due to the pause in asylum decisions. Accepted to study business at university, Leen found she was ineligible for a student loan because of her uncertain residency status. This has left her career aspirations and job security in jeopardy.

"The government paused decisions for Syrians in December. I literally have no one in Syria, no family, nothing," she said, emphasizing the impact of the situation on her life. In the meantime, Mr. Featonby underscored that while the situation in Syria is evolving, clarity regarding its future safety remains elusive, proposing that claims from individuals seeking protection for reasons other than past regime actions should be expedited.