German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has ignited significant controversy within his own conservative party following remarks made about the state of Syria. During a meeting on October 24, 2023, with members of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian counterpart, the Christian Social Union (CSU), Wadephul reportedly stated that Syria today resembles Germany in 1945 in terms of devastation. This comment has drawn criticism from several lawmakers who attended the meeting.
Participants confirmed the remarks to the German news agency dpa, with one lawmaker describing Wadephul’s presentation as “terrible” and “disastrous.” Concerns have emerged regarding his support within the party, as several members expressed irritation over his comments. The Foreign Office has not provided any commentary regarding the uproar, leaving Wadephul’s statements largely unaddressed by the government.
Tensions within the CDU escalated after Wadephul’s visit to Syria last week, where he commented on the dire living conditions in the country. While touring the suburb of Harasta, he questioned the likelihood of Syrian refugees in Germany returning home in the near future due to the extensive destruction. “It is barely possible for people to live here with dignity,” Wadephul remarked, further stating, “In the near future, [Syrian refugees] cannot return.”
These remarks conflict with the CDU’s official stance, which advocates for the swift deportation of Syrian criminals and encourages voluntary returns of refugees. In response to growing discontent, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reiterated the party’s position, declaring that “the civil war in Syria is over” and asserting that there are no longer valid grounds for asylum in Germany, thus allowing for repatriations.
The frustration among lawmakers has intensified due to the delay in Wadephul’s clarification of his statements. He only addressed the issue shortly before the parliamentary meeting on October 24. Wadephul emphasized that both he and the Foreign Office are committed to supporting the return of criminal offenders and dangerous individuals to Syria and Afghanistan. “There is absolutely no difference on this,” he stated, highlighting ongoing efforts to facilitate voluntary returns and assist in rebuilding Syria.
During the meeting, Wadephul reiterated his position, but reactions were lukewarm, with limited applause from attendees. His controversial comparison to post-war Germany was reportedly made at the end of his remarks, with no further comments from other lawmakers in response to his statement.
As the political fallout continues, Wadephul’s comments have sparked a broader debate within the CDU regarding the party’s approach to the Syrian refugee crisis, further complicating the already sensitive issue of repatriation amid ongoing humanitarian concerns.
