Donors pledged €5.8 billion for Syria at a Brussels conference, a drop from €7.5 billion last year, primarily due to reduced US support. Attendees included Syrian authorities for the first time amid ongoing humanitarian crisis and violence. The EU and individual countries committed substantial aid as efforts increase for stability and recovery.
On Monday, during a conference in Brussels, international donors pledged €5.8 billion ($6.3 billion) for Syria, led by the European Union. This amount, consisting of €4.2 billion in grants and €1.6 billion in loans, marks a decrease from the previous year’s pledge of €7.5 billion. The reduced funding comes amid dwindling US support as the nation scales back its aid budget, prompting concerns regarding aid for millions affected by over a decade of civil war.
Significantly, the conference included the attendance of Syrian authorities for the first time, with interim Foreign Minister Assaad al-Shibani representing the new regime. Despite presenting a united front, recent outbreaks of violence have undermined confidence in their governance following the removal of President Bashar al-Assad twelve years ago. The EU intends to enhance its commitment, pledging nearly €2.5 billion ($2.7 billion) for this year and the next.
Individual contributors, including Germany and the United Kingdom, committed substantial funds of approximately $330 million and $210 million respectively. Meanwhile, US Representative Natasha Franceschi highlighted the US’ past role, stating it has provided more than $18.3 billion in assistance over the past fourteen years, but emphasized the need for other nations to share the financial responsibility moving forward.
Amid this complex backdrop, Syria’s new leaders are advocating for assistance to support recovery, particularly as the EU has eased some sanctions on critical sectors, contingent on political reforms. Shibani articulated the need for further action beyond initial measures, emphasizing the desire for a transitional process that encompasses all Syrian citizens.
The humanitarian crisis in Syria remains severe, with 16.7 million individuals in need of assistance due to widespread devastation and economic decline following years of international isolation. Mirjana Spoljaric, president of the International Committee of the Red Cross, warned against the consequences of disinvesting from Syria, asserting that humanitarian aid is vital to preventing further suffering and enabling recovery.
In summary, the recent donors’ conference resulted in a total pledge of €5.8 billion for Syria, a decline from last year’s contributions. With significant changes in representation and a pressing humanitarian crisis, stakeholders are urged to cooperate more actively in supporting the nation’s recovery. The ongoing instability, recent violence, and continued needs of the Syrian population highlight the importance of international aid in conjunction with efforts towards political reform.
Original Source: www.mykxlg.com
