German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has sparked significant controversy within his conservative party following a comparison of Syria’s current state to Germany in 1945. During a meeting with the parliamentary group of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian counterpart, the Christian Social Union (CSU), on October 3, 2023, Wadephul reportedly stated that conditions in Syria are “worse than Germany in 1945.” Several attendees confirmed this remark to the German press agency, dpa.
The Foreign Office has not provided any comments regarding the incident. Several lawmakers in attendance expressed their discontent with Wadephul’s comments. One member characterized his appearance as “terrible” and “disastrous,” indicating a decline in support for the foreign minister within his own political ranks.
Previous Controversies on Syria
The uproar follows a previous incident during Wadephul’s visit to Syria, where he expressed doubts about the potential for Syrian refugees in Germany to return home in the foreseeable future. While in the devastated suburb of Harasta, he remarked, “It is barely possible for people to live here with dignity,” reinforcing the idea that conditions would not support voluntary returns soon. This statement diverged from the CDU’s position advocating for the swift deportation of Syrian criminals and encouraging refugee returns.
In response to the growing discontent, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz clarified the party’s stance on October 2, 2023. He stated, “The civil war in Syria is over. There are no longer any grounds for asylum in Germany, and therefore we can begin repatriations.” Following this statement, frustrations among party members persisted due to Wadephul’s delayed clarification of his comments, which only came shortly before the parliamentary meeting.
Future Implications
Wadephul reiterated his support for facilitating the return of Syrian refugees and underscored the importance of rebuilding the country. He emphasized that both he and the Foreign Office are committed to ensuring the safe return of criminals and dangerous individuals to Syria and Afghanistan. “There is absolutely no difference on this,” he stated, echoing Merz’s sentiments.
Despite his efforts to address the concerns, Wadephul received only muted applause from his colleagues during the meeting. The controversial comparison to wartime Germany was reportedly offered at the conclusion of his remarks, with no immediate response from other lawmakers. As tensions within the CDU continue to mount, Wadephul’s future as foreign minister may be at risk as the party navigates its position on the complex issues surrounding Syria and its refugees.
