Commenting on the repatriation of German children from northern Syria, Susanna Krüger, CEO of Save the Children Germany, said:

"We welcome the fact that the German government has today brought another group of German children from northern Syria to Germany. This is an important additional step in upholding the rights of German children stranded in Syria. Seven of these children were cared for by our teams in northern Syria. Our colleagues have supported the German government in making preparations for the return of the children to their home country.

“With its commitment to the rights of German children all over the world, the Federal Government is fulfilling its obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and at the same time sending an important message to other states that repatriation is possible. Children who have fled IS-held areas are innocent victims who are themselves suffering the worst consequences of the conflict. They should be brought home with their mothers, regardless of their nationality, so that they can lead a normal life and have a future.

“Governments must do all they can to ensure that families can stay together. Upon arrival in the home country, the children and their relatives must receive the necessary support for reintegration as well as medical care and protection. Repatriation of children is more urgent than ever given the Corona pandemic and the growing lack of prospects in Syria and neighbouring countries."