Ninth Brussels Conference: Supporting Syria’s Transition and Recovery

The Ninth Brussels Conference on March 17 aims to support Syria’s transition by obtaining international aid pledges, emphasizing a coordinated response to humanitarian needs. The EU and UN reaffirm their commitment to a Syrian-led transition and continue their extensive cooperation, which has mobilized over €30 billion since 2011. Efforts are geared towards addressing displacement, supporting justice initiatives, and ensuring sustainable socio-economic recovery.

On March 17, the European Union will convene the Ninth Brussels Conference entitled “Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition.” This significant event aims to express steadfast support for the Syrian people during this transformative phase in their nation’s history. With the fall of the Assad regime, Syrians now have an invaluable chance to determine their future, and the EU and United Nations reaffirm their solidarity to facilitate a Syrian-led transition that is inclusive and responsive to urgent humanitarian concerns.

The conference’s primary goal is to garner international support for Syria’s transition, along with securing pledges for humanitarian and non-humanitarian assistance. This initiative will provide continued aid to Syrians both within the country and in host communities across various nations, including Jordan, Lebanon, Türkiye, Egypt, and Iraq. Furthermore, the Brussels Conference emphasizes the need for a coordinated response to adequately address both immediate and longer-term requirements.

The cooperation between the EU and UN is central to addressing the Syrian crisis effectively. The EU endorses a politically mediated solution that is Syrian-led and in alignment with UN Security Council Resolution 2254 and the 2012 Geneva Communiqué. Engaging actively with regional and international partners, along with Syrian civil society, the EU aims to bolster the UN-led Geneva process.

Since the onset of the conflict in 2011, the EU and its Member States have channeled over €30 billion into supporting those affected by the Syrian war, establishing themselves as the largest global donor to the crisis. This wide-ranging support covers humanitarian aid, stabilization, and resilience-building efforts both within Syria and in surrounding countries, fostering a comprehensive approach to the crisis.

The collaboration also focuses on addressing displacement challenges, ensuring that repatriation of refugees occurs in a manner that is voluntary, safe, and dignified, as per UNHCR standards. The EU advocates for initiatives that enhance access for humanitarian organizations to oversee return conditions and extend essential services.

Additionally, the EU aligns itself with UN efforts advocating for justice and accountability, supporting bodies such as the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM), along with the UN Commission of Inquiry. The EU expresses commitment to initiatives aimed at clarifying the whereabouts of Syria’s missing persons, aligning with efforts to achieve lasting justice and reconciliation.

To further its commitment, the EU plans to host an event focused on civil society in Damascus later this year, ensuring ongoing engagement with Syrian communities and stakeholders. Moreover, the European Commission’s Directorate-General for the Middle East, North Africa, and the Gulf will conduct a workshop on March 18 titled “How to ensure coordinated international support to Syria’s socio-economic recovery?” This workshop will build upon ministerial discussions to explore Syria’s socio-economic recovery and devise strategies for stabilization and job creation.

The Ninth Brussels Conference represents a critical effort by the European Union and United Nations to support Syria as it transitions towards a more stable and inclusive future. By mobilizing international aid and fostering a collaborative approach, the conference seeks to address pressing humanitarian challenges while laying the groundwork for long-term economic recovery. The commitment of both entities to engage with Syrian civil society underscores the importance of a participatory process in shaping Syria’s future.

Original Source: unric.org