Austria will keep its suspension of family reunification for Syrian refugees in place for at least a year, as reported by The Presse. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner said the government is working to legally secure this halt, which he defended as necessary due to pressure on the country’s systems. He claimed that schools in some cities are overwhelmed, with up to 80 percent of students not speaking German. Youth crime, especially among young Syrians, has also surged, with over 1,000 suspects under age 14 recorded in 2024. These developments, Karner argued, justified the sharp drop in family reunification requests—from 1,500 a month last year to only 60 this February. The pause, he said, will remain in place until public services are relieved and functioning more effectively.
On deportations, Karner noted that around 13,000 people were deported from Austria last year, with 4,500 more so far this year. But forced deportations to Syria remain on hold due to the uncertain political situation after the fall of the Assad regime. He did say, however, that “mid-term” returns may become possible. Talks have already been held with German officials in Jordan, and Karner hopes to open dialogue with Syria’s transitional government. He mentioned that tens of thousands have returned to Syria voluntarily and believes the country is becoming safer for some groups.
Karner also voiced support for quick action on allowing authorities to monitor messaging apps used by suspected extremists or terrorists. He said the plan would affect only 30 to 50 cases per year and would not involve mass surveillance.
In response to upcoming national budget cuts, Karner promised that public safety would not be compromised. He didn’t rule out cuts to police overtime but insisted basic police presence would stay strong.
Still, his remarks drew harsh criticism. FPÖ’s Michael Schnedlitz accused him of making empty promises, while Green Party MP Agnes-Sirkka Prammer said his statements were too vague to inspire trust. Both parties questioned whether Karner truly has the security of Austrians at heart.
