EU’s New Aid Initiative for Syria Post-Assad Ouster

Germany has launched a new pledging round for Syria as the EU hosts a donor conference with Syrian representation. Following years of civil conflict, Western powers seek stability in Syria despite recent violent outbreaks. Germany has pledged an additional 300 million euros to assist humanitarian efforts, addressing the significant needs of approximately 16.7 million people requiring aid.

On Monday, Germany initiated a renewed pledging campaign for Syria, coinciding with an EU-hosted donor drive aimed at assisting the war-torn nation in the aftermath of Bashar al-Assad’s removal. This annual conference in Brussels marks a significant shift as Syrian authorities will be represented for the first time, with interim foreign minister Assaad al-Shibani attending.

There is a concerted effort among Western and regional powers to guide Syria towards stability following fourteen years of civil war that have resulted in millions of refugees fleeing the country. However, recent violent outbreaks, the most severe since December’s regime change, have raised concerns regarding the new Islamist-led government’s capability.

“There can only be a peaceful future for Syria if there is an inclusive political process,” asserted German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. She pledged an additional 300 million euros from Berlin to the United Nations and other organizations aiding Syrians domestically and in neighboring regions.

Historically, the EU’s annual donor conference has primarily focused on supporting refugees in surrounding countries while maintaining a distance from the Assad administration. This year’s event emphasizes securing funds to address the urgent humanitarian crises affecting both Syrians within the country and those displaced abroad.

Syria faces extensive needs, with vast areas destroyed and an economy devastated by years of international sanctions following Assad’s severe crackdown on opposition in 2011, which instigated the civil war. Currently, approximately 16.7 million individuals require humanitarian aid, and the United Nations warns that, based on current growth rates, it could take Syria over fifty years to regain its pre-war economic standing.

The EU’s renewed aid initiative signals a significant shift toward engaging the Syrian authorities in humanitarian efforts following years of conflict. Germany’s pledge of additional funding highlights the urgency of addressing the dire humanitarian situation faced by millions in Syria and neighboring countries. As the international community seeks to stabilize Syria, the success of this aid drive will depend on fostering an inclusive political process and rebuilding the war-torn nation.

Original Source: news.az