“Caught in a Political Quagmire: The Struggles of Syrians Stuck in Passport Limbo”

Syrians in Passport Limbo During Assad’s Victory Lap

Introduction

The process of renewing passports for Syrians has been plagued with difficulties since 2011, with interruptions, skyrocketing costs, and scarce appointments. Despite recent foreign travel opportunities for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as Arab capitals normalize relations with the Syrian government, ordinary Syrians looking to go abroad are not so lucky. This article will explore the challenges faced by Syrians in renewing their passports, the impact on their livelihoods and freedom of movement, and the responsibility of foreign governments in prioritizing the rights of Syrians amidst normalization efforts.

Delays and Difficulties

Since the closure of the majority of embassies and consulates during Syria’s civil war, renewing Syrian passports has been a complicated process. Syrians have had to find alternative methods to obtain their passports, often resorting to creative measures such as obtaining them from the few remaining open embassies or shipping them from inside Syria, despite bans.

Authorities have significantly raised prices for passport renewals, with normal processing now costing $300 and expedited processing priced at $800. These exorbitant fees place an undue burden on Syrians abroad seeking to renew their passports. Additionally, the scarcity of appointments and difficulties with the online registration process have intensified the challenges faced by Syrians.

Consequences for Syrians

The delays and difficulties in renewing passports have severe consequences for Syrians‘ livelihoods and freedom of movement. Syrians are reporting instances of being turned away without explanation despite arriving with all the necessary paperwork or being forced to pay excessive amounts to facilitate the process. These obstacles impede Syrians‘ ability to travel, visit their families, and pursue educational or work opportunities abroad.

Human Rights Watch interviewed a Syrian student in Europe who has been waiting for over two months for his new passport to travel and see his family. Despite his efforts, nearby embassies have informed him that passport renewals are on hold. Another Syrian in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) chose to send his passport to Syria and pay the expedited fee. However, it has been more than two months without any updates, putting his UAE residency at risk.

Foreign Governments’ Role

As foreign governments extend invitations to the Syrian government and effectively welcome it back into the international fold, it is crucial that the rights of Syrians remain a priority. The normalization efforts with the Syrian government must not overshadow the years of conflict and government corruption that ordinary Syrians continue to face.

While foreign governments may have their political motivations for engaging with the Syrian government, they must also exert pressure to address the grievances of Syrian civilians. The normalization process should not overlook the crimes committed during the war and the need for justice.

Editorial and Advice

The Syrian passport renewal process is a critical issue that needs urgent attention. It is imperative for international human rights organizations and foreign governments to advocate for a transparent and efficient passport renewal system for Syrians.

Firstly, authorities in Syria must be accountable and provide clear and consistent explanations for the delays and interruptions in the passport renewal process. Transparency is key in rebuilding trust and addressing the grievances of Syrians.

Secondly, foreign governments should use their diplomatic leverage to pressure the Syrian government to prioritize the rights of its citizens. They must not shy away from demanding accountability for the crimes committed during the war and ensuring justice for the victims.

Moreover, international human rights organizations should continue to document and report on the difficulties faced by Syrians in renewing their passports. By shedding light on these challenges, they can help create awareness and mobilize support to address the issue.

Lastly, financial support from the international community can play a crucial role in assisting Syrians in obtaining their passports. Non-governmental organizations and donor countries should consider providing financial aid to alleviate the burdensome costs of passport renewals for Syrians abroad.

In conclusion, the passport limbo that Syrians find themselves in amidst Assad’s recent foreign travel opportunities highlights the ongoing struggles faced by ordinary Syrians. Passports are essential for their economic opportunities, family connections, and freedom of movement. It is imperative that foreign governments and international organizations prioritize the rights of Syrians and actively engage in finding solutions to alleviate their difficulties in renewing their passports.

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