Human rights defenders have raised concerns about the increase in violence against Syrian refugees in Cyprus and Lebanon, including forced deportation. Syrian human rights defenders are calling on the European Union to intervene to stop this violence. They have met with EU officials to discuss the situation and have highlighted the risks that refugees face upon their return to Syria, including detention and recruitment into military service. The proximity of Lebanon, Syria, and Cyprus has led to many Syrians trying to reach Cyprus by crossing the Mediterranean Sea, but Cyprus has suspended processing applications. The European Commission has approved financial aid for Lebanon, but Human Rights Watch has criticized the lack of oversight to ensure compliance with fundamental rights.
Activists have made an appeal to the European Council to re-evaluate its policies towards Syria in light of the situation facing Syrian refugees. Eight member states have sent a letter calling for a more active and results-oriented policy towards Syria, including resuming dialogue with the Syrian regime. However, human rights activists argue that there should be a focus on accountability in Syria rather than discussions on the return of refugees. They emphasize that Syria is still largely under the control of Bashar Al-Assad, and that conditions are not safe for returnees as they face human rights abuses. The activists caution against dialogue with the regime, as it could undermine efforts for lasting peace and respect for human rights.
The United Nations has highlighted the risks facing Syrian refugees, who are increasingly becoming targets of xenophobia, discrimination, and violent aggression. The political discourse around dialogue with Assad has raised concerns among activists. They warn that any resumption of dialogue with the Syrian regime should not be seen as a diplomatic move to resolve the conflict, as it could rehabilitate a regime responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity. The activists stress the importance of accountability for war criminals in Syria and ensuring that they are not in power. They argue that any dialogue with the regime could jeopardize efforts for lasting peace and respect for human rights.
Despite denials from the Cyprus government about carrying out pushbacks of Syrian asylum seekers, there have been reports of violence and discrimination against Syrian refugees in Cyprus and Lebanon. The increase in violence has been documented by the United Nations and various non-governmental organizations, prompting calls for intervention from the European Union. Activists and lawyers emphasize the need for oversight and accountability to ensure that refugees are protected and not subjected to human rights abuses. The situation facing Syrian refugees in Cyprus and Lebanon highlights the challenges they face in seeking safety and protection in the region.
The appeal from human rights defenders comes at a critical time, as the European Council is set to discuss the letter sent by eight member states calling for a re-evaluation of EU policies towards Syria. The foreign ministers of these countries have called for a more active and operational Syria policy that focuses on increasing political leverage and effectiveness of humanitarian assistance. The activists stress the need for a shift towards accountability in Syria and ensuring that war criminals are not in power. They warn against dialogue with the Assad regime, as it could undermine efforts for lasting peace and respect for human rights in the region. The situation facing Syrian refugees highlights the need for urgent action to protect their rights and safety in the face of increasing violence and discrimination.
