Syrian asylum seekers in Cyprus seek voluntary repatriation

A group of Syrian asylum seekers in Cyprus has formally requested voluntary repatriation in a letter to the Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection.

The letter, signed by the “Syrians in Cyprus” group, expresses optimism about Syria’s future, stating that “a new hopeful day is dawning in Syria” after 13 years of armed conflict and the end of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

The group acknowledged Cyprus as a law-abiding state that provided protection whilst they were away from their homes, families, and friends.

They drew parallels with the Cypriot experience of war and displacement, noting that “the entire Cypriot society can understand what it means to long for return to ancestral lands”.

Despite acknowledging that Syria cannot yet be considered safe and that political conditions remain unstable, the letter indicates that some members have expressed their desire for voluntary return since “the first day of Syria’s new chapter in history” and wish to close their international protection applications.

The group has requested the government to implement measures for an organised, safe and dignified return for those choosing voluntary repatriation, and to extend the Assisted Voluntary Return programme to cover Syrian nationals.

The organisation is currently collecting details of those wishing to return in the near future and has indicated that its representatives are available to discuss the matter further.

The letter concludes by expressing gratitude to the Republic of Cyprus and hopes for a positive response to their request, “to safeguard the interests of both our members and Cyprus as a whole”.

Incyprus