A plate of shawarma in Berlin reflects a much bigger debate in Germany. As Syrian restaurants, care services and small businesses become fixtures of everyday life, a proposal by Chancellor Friedrich Merz has shaken the community: up to 80% of Syrians in Germany could return to Syria within three years.
The statement has sparked uncertainty among refugees who have spent a decade building careers, learning German and filling labor gaps in healthcare, gastronomy, construction and logistics. With Syrians now forming the largest group of newly naturalized citizens and employment rates exceeding expectations, experts warn that large-scale returns could hurt Germany’s economy and exacerbate demographic pressures.
Between integration success and political rhetoric, many Syrians are left questioning their future in a country they increasingly call home.
This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.
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