Under the title "Panic Among Syrian Refugees in Denmark After 'Deportation Letters,'" a translated article published by Al-Hurra indicates that Denmark has become the first European country to declare Syria as safe, as of last month, and has begun moves to repatriate Syrian refugees despite the uncertain fate they face. This government action has caused panic among refugees in Denmark, according to a report from the British newspaper "The Guardian."
The newspaper states that the Danish government is facing accusations of pursuing refugees. It reported that it had seen one of the letters sent to some refugees, which stated, "If you do not voluntarily travel outside of Denmark, we can send you to Syria." The Telegraph showcased a message from the immigration authorities to an 18-year-old refugee, whose name was not published for security reasons, informing him that his residence permit would not be renewed, despite his father having personal disputes with the regime before they fled.
Danish authorities are adamant about their decision regarding the refugee even though he is of conscription age and would be forced into military service if he returns. His father, being Christian, may face the risk of kidnapping by ISIS. The report noted that his five years of living in Denmark, fluency in Danish, and completion of secondary school did not protect him against the government's decision.
The New York Times reported that since Danish immigration authorities deemed Damascus and its surroundings safe in 2019, they have reviewed the residence permits of 1,250 Syrians who fled their country due to the war. The authorities have thus far revoked over 205 residence permits, making Denmark the first country in the European Union to strip Syrians of asylum status at a time when most areas of Syria are classified as unsafe by the United Nations.
