Asylum Europe urged not to freeze claims as fall of Assad leaves uncertain future

The UN refugee agency and the UK's biggest refugee charity have warned European countries not to turn their backs on the Syrians who are applying for asylum.

- Rajeev Syal, Diane Taylor

The interventions from the UN high commissioner for refugees (UNHCR) and the Refugee Council follow the UK government's suspension of 6,500 asylum claims from Syrian nationals after the collapse of the Assad regime.

Germany has also stopped processing claims while Austria's government has said it is preparing to repatriate Syrians.

"It is critical that Syrians who are compelled to flee the country are given access to territory," the UNHCR said. "In light of the uncertain and highly fluid situation the suspension of processing of asylum applications from Syrians is acceptable as long as people can apply for asylum and are able to lodge asylum applications.