With the potential fall of Bashar Assad, concerns are rising about the future of thousands of Syrian doctors who have settled in Germany. Over the past decade, Germany has become a haven for Syrian refugees, including many highly qualified medical professionals. Discussions about encouraging their return have intensified, but losing these skilled workers could severely impact the German healthcare system, which is already facing a labor shortage.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stressed that retaining these professionals is crucial, saying entire sectors could falter if they leave. Syrian doctors now make up the largest group of foreign medical staff in Germany, with estimates of over 6,000 employed in hospitals. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach called them “indispensable” to the healthcare sector.
While some Syrian doctors are contemplating a return if conditions improve, many feel secure and integrated in Germany. Dr. Hiba Alnayef expressed a desire for cooperation between Germany and Syria, highlighting the mutual benefits of such collaboration. However, she warned that a significant exodus would exacerbate staffing shortages and burnout in the German health system.
Dr. Ayham Darouich noted that his peers are not inclined to return and described concerns about a mass departure as “exaggerated.” He emphasized the need for Germany to improve working conditions and salaries to retain both trained professionals and foreign talent.
As the situation in Syria evolves, the future of Syrian doctors in Germany remains uncertain, but their contributions are critical to the healthcare system’s stability.
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