Story perspectives

Bulgaria Coerces Syrian Refugees Amid Human Rights Outcry

10/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Bulgarian authorities coerce Syrian refugees into 'voluntary' returns to Syria after the Assad regime's fall, detaining many and pressuring them to sign papers for national security.
Imad, a Syrian refugee, was detained and stripped of his residence permit, facing deportation.
Since 2024, Bulgaria's asylum system has rejected nearly all Syrian claims.
Human rights groups criticize detention and psychological pressure, with Bulgaria leading the EU in illegal migrant pushbacks.

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Story summary

Bulgarian authorities coerce Syrian refugees into 'voluntary' returns to Syria after the Assad regime's fall, detaining many and pressuring them to sign papers for national security.
Imad, a Syrian refugee, was detained and stripped of his residence permit, facing deportation.
Since 2024, Bulgaria's asylum system has rejected nearly all Syrian claims.
Human rights groups criticize detention and psychological pressure, with Bulgaria leading the EU in illegal migrant pushbacks.