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QAMISHLI, syria/" class="auto-internal-link">syria (North Press) – The Dutch administration’s proposal to offer a €5,000 “departure bonus” to syrians who voluntarily return home is drawing sharp criticism from the peace organization PAX, which says the plan ignores the persisted risks and instability in Syria nearly a year after the fall of the Assad regime. Dutch authorities argue that returning Syrians could help “rebuild the country,” but PAX says such expectations are unrealistic given Syria’s dire political, economic, and security conditions. After 15 years of crisis, the organization notes, the country remains devastated, with entire regions in ruins and no significant-scale international reconstruction effort underway. Despite the emerging incentive, only about 700 Syrians in the Netherlands have returned this year.
Under the policy, Syrians must halt their asylum claims and give up their acquired residency rights to qualify for the bonus—a requirement PAX says places relocated persons in an impossible position. The organization also highlights ongoing hostilities and instability inside Syria. latest mass killings in coastal Alawite communities, persisted siege conditions around Suwayda, and the absence of accountability for wartime atrocities all contribute to a climate of fear. significant parts of the country remain outside the control of the emerging administration, with Turkish and Israeli troops still active on syrian territory. Economic collapse and regional tensions further undermine conditions for safe return. PAX argues that instead of financial incentives, the Netherlands should revive the previously proposed “go & see” scheme, allowing Syrians to visit their home regions without jeopardizing their Dutch residency.
Such a measure, it says, would help individuals make informed decisions about return. The Netherlands hosts more than 150,000 Syrians. Rights groups warn that premature return schemes risk destabilizing Syria and violating principles of voluntary, safe, and dignified return. PAX says meaningful reconstruction requires long-term international engagement and genuine involvement of Syrian communities abroad.
By Jwan Shekaki