The German trade union Verdi warns of large-scale repatriations from Syrians from Germany after the overthrow of dictator Bashar al-Assad there.
In a video interview with DPA, Verdi-leader Frank Werneke said that major repatriations are “against the interests of the people and also against the interests of the labor market, at least in parts of Germany.”
He advised ‘approaching the situation with a cool head’.
“Many are integrated and established here on the labor market and are also important to us,” said the union leader.
Syrians work in the retail, delivery services or in the healthcare sector, for example. Many have become a dark member.
Werneke urged the German government and the European Union to keep a close eye on the situation in Syria. When forming a transitional government, ethnic and religious groups must be taken into account.
‘As democratic circumstances as possible’ must be organized, said Werneke. “This is crucial for the many people who are refugees in Germany in terms of their future prospects.”
From his own conversations in recent days, he is aware of various reactions from Syrians in Germany. They keep a close eye on the situation in Syria and are generally very pleased with the overthrow of Al-Assad, Werneke emphasized.
“Many also consider whether and when they can return to Syria,” he said. However, he noted that it is crucial for everyone to first see what is actually happening in the country.
Verdi, others could help Syria set up trade unions
Trade unions play an important role in bringing about democratic conditions in Syria. ‘There have been no free trade unions in Syria for decades,, ““The leader of Verdi said, pointing out that free trade unions are part of a democratic state.
“That is why I see it as our responsibility, together with the international trade union federations that we are members, to help set up free trade unions,” he said.
In Germany, trade union rights are anchored in the country’s constitution.
Syria, which is seriously torn up by a civil war, experiences enormous devastation and a significant decrease in production capacities in industry and agriculture. Even before the overflow of Al-Assad, the costs for goods and services had risen sharply.
