Syria’s interim government will attend an EU aid conference in Brussels, aimed at addressing the humanitarian crisis and political uncertainty following Assad’s removal. The event highlights the critical needs of the Syrian population amid economic turmoil, while also presenting opportunities for renewed international engagement.
The transitional authority in Damascus is poised to participate in an annual international aid conference for Syria, facing severe humanitarian challenges amid a politically ambiguous landscape following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. This event, organized by the European Union in Brussels since 2017, previously excluded Assad’s regime due to its involvement in the civil war, which began in 2011.
With Assad’s fall in December, EU officials view this conference as an opportunity for renewal, notwithstanding ongoing violence this month between the new Islamist governance and Assad loyalists. Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief, noted the critical humanitarian needs, stating, “This is a time of dire needs and challenges for Syria.”
Simultaneously, Kallas emphasized a cautious optimism, referencing an agreement made on March 10 to incorporate the Kurdish-led and US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces into new state institutions. However, the group that played a key role in overthrowing Assad, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, is labeled a terrorist organization by the United Nations, complicating EU engagement with the new leadership, contingent upon their commitment to an inclusive, peaceful transition.
The Syrian Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shibani, is expected to attend alongside numerous European and Arab ministers and representatives from international organizations. Given recent significant reductions in humanitarian aid from the United States under President Trump’s administration, this conference holds heightened significance to secure necessary support and funding.
The previous conference generated approximately 7.5 billion euros ($8.1 billion) in pledges, with the EU committing 2.12 billion euros for 2024 and 2025. Presently, around 16.5 million individuals in Syria require humanitarian assistance, with 12.9 million needing food aid. The persistent devastation from the conflict is exacerbated by an economic crisis that has led to a drastic devaluation of the Syrian pound, plunging nearly the entire populace into poverty.
In summary, the upcoming EU aid conference will be pivotal for addressing Syria’s dire humanitarian situation amidst ongoing political instability following the recent governmental change. While the transitional authority seeks to engage with international partners, the historical context of violence and economic decline presents substantial challenges. The collaboration and pledges garnered at this conference will play a crucial role in supporting the millions in need and fostering a sustainable transition in the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
