Germany’s Controversial Invite to Syria’s Al-Sharaa Sparks Outrage Over Refugee Policy

A divisive move or diplomatic gamble? Merz’s invitation to Syria’s controversial leader raises alarms over refugee safety and minority rights. Critics call it reckless.

, and Administrator

2025 November 5 . 11:16 PM

1 min read

In the image there is a book with army tank and jeeps on it, it seems like a war along with a text... — In the image there is a book with army tank and jeeps on it, it seems like a war along with a text above it.

Germany’s Controversial Invite to Syria’s Al-Sharaa Sparks Outrage Over Refugee Policy

Chancellor Friedrich Merz has invited Ahmad Al-Sharaa, previously known as Al-Jolani, to Germany, despite his past role in human rights abuses in Syria. Al-Sharaa's visit comes as Merz aims to facilitate the return of Syrian refugees to their home country, a move critics argue ignores the dire conditions and persecution faced by minorities there.

Al-Sharaa, who led the Syrian interim administration, is accused of orchestrating atrocities against Alawites and Druze during his rule. His appointment signals a concerning shift in Merz's foreign policy, which has previously been criticised for inviting controversial figures like Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu.

Merz's 'realpolitik' approach disregards the findings of his foreign minister, who reported that life in Syria is marked by devastation, unemployment, and discrimination against minorities. The chancellor's primary goal is to encourage Syrian refugees in Germany to return home, even suggesting forced deportation for those unwilling to leave.

Experts warn that an inclusive Syria requires pressure on the interim administration to change its course. However, with Al-Sharaa at the helm, such change seems unlikely, raising concerns about the future of Syria's minorities.

Merz's invitation of Ahmad Al-Sharaa, despite his past human rights violations, has sparked controversy. As the chancellor pushes for the return of Syrian refugees, critics argue that his approach overlooks the harsh realities and persecution faced by Syria's minorities under Al-Sharaa's leadership.