The EU is convening a donor drive in Brussels for Syria’s post-Assad recovery with representation from the Syrian authorities. The EU aims to address the urgent humanitarian crisis while hoping for positive transitions in the country. Recent violence threatens confidence, and U.S. funding cuts may impact overall support. Arab nations are expected to fill funding gaps, with future reconstruction conferences anticipated.
The European Union is hosting a donor drive in Brussels aimed at securing financing for Syria’s recovery following the removal of Bashar al-Assad. For the first time, the Syrian authorities will participate, represented by interim foreign minister Assaad al-Shibani. Western and regional entities are keen to promote stability in Syria after 14 years of civil conflict, which has resulted in a significant refugee crisis.
However, recent violent outbreaks have undermined confidence in the new Islamist-led authorities. An EU official stated, “Our objective with this conference is to stand with Syria while stressing the need for a successful transition.” Historically, the EU’s annual meetings focused on aiding refugees rather than engaging with the Assad regime, indicating a significant shift this year.
Syria faces extensive challenges, with vast areas devastated and a severely weakened economy. The United Nations projects that, at current growth rates, the country may require over 50 years to restore pre-war economic levels. Approximately 16.7 million individuals are currently in need of assistance, prompting urgent actions from the EU to address immediate necessities.
The new Syrian leadership, under former Islamist rebel Ahmed al-Sharaa, seeks help for recovery efforts. The EU has relaxed sanctions on critical economic sectors but insists that Syrian authorities honor commitments to an inclusive transition. Despite steps taken by Damascus, including a constitutional declaration outlining a five-year transition, violence against civilians has tempered optimism.
Last year’s donor drive successfully raised 7.5 billion euros to support the Syrian populace, but this year’s efforts might be challenged by reductions in the U.S. foreign aid budget under President Trump’s administration, who is a significant donor to humanitarian efforts in Syria. An EU representative acknowledged the potential impact of U.S. funding cuts, stating, “Now one of the two pillars is somehow reducing… and this implies a scarcity of humanitarian funds worldwide.”
Officials from the EU express hope that Arab nations will bolster support to compensate for dwindling U.S. contributions, and anticipate additional conferences dedicated to Syria’s reconstruction funding in the near future.
In summary, the EU’s donor drive represents a critical initiative for Syria’s post-Assad recovery, reflecting a shift in engagement with the Syrian regime. The situation remains precarious, with significant humanitarian needs and concerns over recent violence. The involvement of the United States, traditionally a major donor, poses uncertainties that may influence the success of the funding efforts. Collaborative efforts among international stakeholders will be essential for addressing Syria’s extensive recovery challenges.
Original Source: www.france24.com
