On Monday 23 December 2024, the Association de Soutien aux Travailleurs Immigrés (ASTI, the Association for the Support of Immigrant Workers) issued a statement on refugees from Syrian.
ASTI has reaffirmed its commitment to respecting the human rights and dignity of all migrants, in the context of what they describe as the still alarming situation in Syria and the challenges facing Syrian refugees in Luxembourg.
"Despite the fall of dictator Bashar El-Assad, Syria remains a country marked by instability, recurring violence and serious violations of fundamental rights. For example, the situation of women suggests a return to restrictions from which those who arrived in our country have begun to free themselves. The return to authoritarian or Islamist powers a few months after the Arab Spring or in Afghanistan requires us to be cautious. In this context, initiatives aimed at forcing Syrian refugees to return to their country of origin are hasty and dangerous. A forced or insufficiently prepared return could expose these individuals to serious risks to their lives and safety".
ASTI has called on the Luxembourg and European authorities to:
- Guarantee a dignified and respectful reception: "Syrian refugees must be able to benefit from support adapted to their needs, particularly in terms of access to housing, education, health and employment. The suspension of asylum procedures for Syrians is a signal that goes in the wrong direction and forces us to ask ourselves questions about our real vision of reception and the effectiveness of the reception policy in Luxembourg";
- Refuse any form of pressure for a forced return: "Respect for the principle of non-refoulement, enshrined in international law and Luxembourg legislation, must be an absolute priority";
- Allow recognised refugees to visit Syria, without automatically losing their status, "so that they can make a fully informed decision about their definitive return";
- Demonstrate kindness but also rigour in assessing applications for international protection, "in order to protect victims and prevent agents and torturers of the criminal Assad regime from finding refuge with impunity in Luxembourg".
The statement concluded "we remind policy makers that refugees should not be considered as a burden, but as people who bring potential and wealth to our societies. An approach marked by kindness and social justice is essential to build a common future based on respect for human rights and solidarity. ASTI will continue to be actively involved in supporting migrants and promoting an inclusive society where everyone can live in dignity and security".
