The European Response to the Syrian Refugee Crisis: What Next?

This paper will examine the EU’s political and humanitarian responses to the Syrian refugee crisis.

First, it will provide a review of facts: a historical review of displacements from Syria, the numbers, and the route of travel for Syrian refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers to Europe. This will be followed by a review of European political and humanitarian responses to the Syrian crisis. Finally, it will conclude with some recommendations for addressing the Syrian refugee crisis.

In short, the EU could consider: establishing a Regional Protection Programme (RPP) with a large increase of Syrian refugee resettlement as a required component; increasing refugee resettlement for those who have been affected by the Syrian crisis and are the most in need; continue positive asylum procedures throughout the EU, and grant prima facie recognition including provision of sufficient assistance to Syrian asylum seekers; encourage visa facilitation and family reunification for Syrians; and continue to work with its international partners to find a political and humanitarian solution to the Syrian crisis.