German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said most Syrian refugees currently in Germany are expected to return to their home country within three years, according to recent statements from his government.

Merz indicated that Berlin plans to work directly with Syrian authorities to facilitate the return of refugees who fled to Germany during Syria's civil war. The timeline represents the government's projection for voluntary repatriation as conditions in Syria potentially stabilize.

The statements come as Merz's government has adopted stricter policies regarding refugees and migrants. This shift in approach occurs amid rising electoral support for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which has campaigned on anti-immigration platforms.

Germany accepted large numbers of Syrian refugees during the height of the Syrian conflict, particularly following Chancellor Angela Merkel's 2015 decision to open borders to asylum seekers. The current government's position marks a notable change from previous policies that emphasized long-term integration of refugees into German society.

The practicality of the three-year timeline will depend on ongoing developments in Syria's political and security situation, as well as the willingness of refugees to return voluntarily to their homeland.