EU Commits 2.5 Billion Euros to Support Syria’s Post-Civil War Recovery
The European Union has pledged 2.5 billion euros ($2.7 billion) to support Syria’s reconstruction following the civil war. The donor conference in Brussels, attended by Western and regional powers, highlighted the need for increased humanitarian aid. Significant contributions from Germany and the UK were announced, while U.S. aid cuts may impact overall funding efforts in 2025. Syria’s new leadership participated, amid ongoing violence impacting civilians.
The European Union has organized a donor conference in Brussels to promote a peaceful transition in Syria following the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad. This event brought together various Western and regional powers to discuss the reconstruction of the war-torn country. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas chaired the one-day meeting held on Monday, focusing on the urgent need for aid and support.
During the conference, the EU announced a commitment of approximately 2.5 billion euros (around $2.7 billion) in assistance to Syria. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized, “Syrians need greater support, whether they are still abroad, or they decide to go home. This is why today, the European Union is increasing its pledge for Syrians in the country and in the region to almost 2.5 billion euros for 2025 and 2026.”
Additionally, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock pledged an extra 300 million euros ($328 million) aimed at supporting United Nations and other humanitarian efforts in Syria. “There can only be a peaceful future for Syria if there is an inclusive political process,” Baerbock stated, highlighting the importance of political inclusivity in achieving long-term peace in the region.
The United Kingdom also contributed up to 160 million British pounds ($208 million) in humanitarian aid, aimed at providing essential resources such as water, food, healthcare, and education for Syrians in 2025. \n
Despite last year’s donor drive successfully raising 7.5 billion euros ($8.2 billion), this year’s efforts may not reach that level due to reductions in the U.S. foreign aid budget. This conference marked Syria’s participation for the first time, represented by interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, as the new leadership aims to assert control over the war-affected regions.
Notably, recent violence from factions loyal to al-Assad has escalated tensions, with violent clashes resulting in significant civilian casualties. Reports indicate that nearly 1,500 civilians, primarily from the Alawite minority, were killed during this turmoil, marking one of the bloodiest periods since the former leader’s overthrow.
In conclusion, the EU’s pledge of 2.5 billion euros for Syria underscores the commitment to support a peaceful transition following a decade-long civil war. Significant contributions from Germany and the United Kingdom further emphasize international support for Syrian reconstruction efforts. However, the financial targets are threatened by reduced aid budgets, raising questions about the future of humanitarian and reconstruction efforts in a country still grappling with violence and instability.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
