International Donors Commit €5.8 Billion in Aid for Syria Amidst Challenges

Donors at a Brussels conference pledged €5.8 billion for Syria, a decrease from last year’s €7.5 billion. The EU reaffirmed support amidst ongoing violence and humanitarian needs affecting 16.7 million people. While Syria’s authorities participated for the first time, calls for eased sanctions highlight their desire for recovery assistance. The U.S. did not specify additional funding, urging other nations to contribute more.

In a recent conference in Brussels, international donors committed €5.8 billion ($6.3 billion) in aid for Syria, led by the European Union. This pledge reflects a decrease compared to last year’s €7.5 billion, primarily due to diminishing U.S. support. The humanitarian needs remain urgent as 16.7 million people are in dire need of assistance following 14 years of civil conflict.

For the first time, representatives from the Syrian authorities, including interim Foreign Minister Assaad al-Shibani, attended the conference. However, rising violence in Syria and instability under newly formed authorities have created doubts regarding the country’s stability. Despite the decrease, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen affirmed Brussels’ commitment with nearly €2.5 billion designated for Syria and neighboring countries over the next two years.

Major contributions included $330 million from Germany and $210 million from Britain. Despite no specific funding announcement from the U.S. delegation, U.S. representative Natasha Franceschi reminded other nations of their financial obligations, stating that the United States had provided more than $18.3 billion in assistance thus far.

The Syrian government is urging for eased sanctions to facilitate recovery efforts. Shibani expressed gratitude towards the EU for recent measures but called for enhanced support. Meanwhile, Syria’s new leadership has established a five-year transitional plan emphasizing rights and freedoms, although recent violence has cast a shadow over these commitments.

As the international community continues to engage, humanitarian aid remains critical. Mirjana Spoljaric, president of the International Committee of the Red Cross, stressed the importance of ongoing support to prevent worsening conditions further. The United Nations has indicated that, under current economic trajectories, Syria could take over 50 years to return to pre-war economic conditions.

In conclusion, while the recent donor pledge of €5.8 billion signifies continued international support for Syria, it falls short of last year’s commitment due to reduced U.S. contributions. The humanitarian crisis remains severe, requiring substantial funding and effective governance to address the needs of millions. As violence continues, the path toward stability and recovery for Syria will necessitate a collective effort from the global community, emphasizing the urgency of aid and cooperation.

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