Austria's Open Arms: Syrians Welcomed And Homed

Austria has taken in a large number of Syrian migrants, with estimates ranging from 47,000 to 100,000. The country's statistics agency reports that around 100,000 Syrians currently live in Austria, while other sources place the figure at around 47,000 to 68,400. Most of these migrants arrived after 2014, and their presence has had significant implications for Austria's educational system, labour market, and welfare state.

Austria's plans to deport Syrian migrants

Austria has announced plans to deport Syrian migrants following the fall of the country's dictator, Bashar Assad, to rebel forces. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner has instructed the ministry to prepare an orderly return and deportation program to Syria, without clarifying which migration statuses would be targeted. Austria is one of six countries, including Belgium, Italy, Germany, Greece and the Netherlands, that are using the success of the rebels to revise their migration policies, with all six closing their doors to asylum seekers.

According to the country's statistics agency, around 100,000 Syrians currently live in Austria. A study focusing on the Syrian community in Austria puts the number at approximately 68,400 people. Another source states that almost 14,000 Syrians applied for international protection in Europe this year up to September, with around 183,000 applying for asylum in all of last year.

The Syrian diaspora in Austria

Austria has taken in a large number of Syrian refugees. According to the country's statistics agency, around 100,000 Syrians live in Austria. However, another source puts the figure at around 68,400.

In 2015, more than 1 million Syrians fled to Europe by land and sea, at the height of the civil war in Syria. Since then, millions have settled in Europe, with many seeking asylum in Germany, Italy and Greece.

Austria has also been a key destination for Syrian refugees, with around 183,000 Syrians applying for asylum there last year. On average, around one in three applications are accepted.

The Syrian community in Austria faces various challenges and has specific needs, as highlighted by a study focusing on this diaspora community. The study provides insights into the fields of activity and challenges faced by Syrians in exile in Austria, as well as formulating demands for Austrian institutions.

The migration experience of Syrians to Austria has been significantly influenced by virtual networks and smartphone tools. These networks have played a pivotal role in motivating, guiding, and connecting individuals throughout the migration process, allowing them to plan and familiarise themselves with the route ahead.

The number of Syrians applying for asylum in Europe

In 2015, more than 1 million Syrians made their way to Europe by land and sea, at the height of the civil war in the country. Since then, millions have settled in Europe, unsettling politics in Germany, Italy and Greece.

Austria is home to around 100,000 Syrians, according to the country's statistics agency. A study focusing on the Syrian community in Austria puts the number at around 68,400 people.

Almost 14,000 Syrians applied for international protection in Europe in the first nine months of 2024, according to the EU's asylum agency. Around 183,000 Syrians applied for asylum in all of 2023. On average, around one in three applications are accepted.

Austria has recently offered Syrians €1,000 to return to their country, as Europe suspends asylum claims.

The role of virtual networks in the migration experiences of Syrians

Austria is home to a large number of Syrian migrants, with estimates ranging from 68,400 to 100,000. The country has recently announced plans to deport Syrian migrants following the fall of the Assad regime.

The migration of Syrians to Austria has been significantly influenced by virtual networks and smartphone tools. Syrian migrants have meticulously planned their journeys using these resources, creating a holographic impression in their minds before embarking. Virtual networks have played a pivotal role in motivating, guiding, and connecting individuals throughout the migration process, allowing them to proceed with "migration network ladders" one by one.

Social media platforms have become essential tools for Syrian refugees, serving multiple purposes. Firstly, they facilitate communication with relatives, friends, and family members, both in Syria and elsewhere. This helps maintain pleasant ties and navigate the challenges of migration. Additionally, social media provides access to information about legal status, rights, and the latest news in crisis situations. It also assists in learning new languages, understanding host country traditions, and seeking employment opportunities.

The use of social media by Syrian refugees extends beyond personal connections and information gathering. It helps build social networks with other refugees and host communities, fostering a sense of community and support. This is particularly important for those in host countries, whether living in homes or camps. The establishment of transnational social networks, including well-established diaspora communities, can significantly impact individual migration decisions and provide support before, during, and after the journey.

Overall, virtual networks and social media have played a crucial role in the migration experiences of Syrians, offering not only a means of communication and information but also a sense of connection, community, and support throughout their journeys.

Austria's suspension of asylum claims

Austria is home to a large Syrian community, with around 68,400 Syrians living in the country according to one study, and 100,000 according to the country's statistics agency. However, Austria has recently suspended asylum claims and is preparing to deport Syrian migrants following the fall of the Assad regime.

Austria's decision to suspend asylum claims is based on the success of Syrian rebel factions, particularly Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which has been designated as a terrorist organization by the United States and the United Kingdom. The Austrian government has not specified which migration statuses will be targeted for deportation, but it is likely that those with refugee or subsidiary protection status will be most at risk.

Under Austrian law, asylum seekers are required to respect and follow the country's laws, and breaking national laws can result in the suspension of their rights as asylum seekers. Additionally, if there is a substantial and lasting change in the specific conditions upon which an asylum seeker's fear of persecution is based, proceedings to withdraw asylum will be initiated. This includes situations where the political situation in the asylum seeker's country of origin has changed, as is the case in Syria following the fall of the Assad regime.

It is important to note that asylum seekers in Austria are entitled to free legal advice provided by the state if their application is rejected. However, the Austrian authorities are allowed to take any cash money carried by asylum seekers if it exceeds 120€.

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