International Donor Support for Syria: A Pledge of €5.8 Billion
International donors pledged €5.8 billion in aid for Syria during a conference in Brussels to help rebuild following the fall of President Assad. Notably, Syrian authorities were represented for the first time despite recent violence shaking confidence. EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the need for support, while the absence of US pledges raises concerns over funding. The humanitarian situation in Syria remains critical with millions in need of assistance.
International donors recently convened in Brussels, pledging approximately €5.8 billion (around $6.5 billion) in aid for Syria. This financial support is aimed at assisting the newly formed leadership in the reconstruction of the country following the fall of President Bashar Assad in December. It reflects the urgent desire of Western and regional powers to guide Syria towards stability after a prolonged 14-year civil conflict that has resulted in millions of refugees.
For the first time, representatives from the Syrian government attended the annual conference, including interim foreign minister Assaad al-Shibani. However, recent violent outbreaks have dampened confidence in the new Islamist-led government. In a demonstration of commitment, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced an increase in aid to nearly €2.5 billion this year and next, with €4.2 billion offered through grants and €1.6 billion as low-interest loans.
Von der Leyen stated, “Syrians need greater support, whether they are still abroad, or they decide to go home.” Despite the pledging efforts, there was no contribution from the United States, whose foreign aid budget has been significantly reduced under President Trump’s administration. Consequently, other nations have been urged to share the financial burden, as the US historically has provided the majority of assistance to the Syrian populace.
While the EU has made strides by easing some sanctions on key economic sectors, it maintains that the new authorities need to fulfill their promises regarding an inclusive governmental transition. Shibani acknowledged the EU’s efforts, stating, “We appreciate the major measures taken by the European Union… however, these measures did not live up to our expectations.” He called for additional support to ensure Syria’s recovery.
Despite some progress, including a constitutional declaration from the new rulers, violence in coastal areas has raised concerns. Reports indicate that security forces have killed nearly 1,500 civilians recently, predominantly from the Alawite minority. The EU has conducted its annual donor drives for Syria for several years, mainly targeting aid towards refugees in neighboring regions rather than engaging with the former Assad regime directly. The humanitarian needs in Syria remain extensive, with approximately 16.7 million people requiring assistance, indicating a dire situation post-conflict.
In summary, the international community has pledged €5.8 billion to aid Syria’s new leadership in rebuilding the war-torn nation. Despite significant contributions from Europe and a call for additional support from other countries, the absence of United States funding poses challenges. The humanitarian crisis persists, and the EU’s ongoing assistance and sanctions management will play critical roles in Syria’s recovery and transition moving forward.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
