EU Eases Sanctions on Syria Ahead of National Dialogue Amid Calls for Reform

The European Union has temporarily lifted certain sanctions on Syria ahead of a national dialogue aimed at establishing a transitional government. Experts emphasize the necessity of further sanctions relief to promote economic recovery and rebuild governance. Concerns persist about the efficacy of the interim government’s performance in achieving inclusive reforms, with ongoing restrictions jeopardizing efforts toward peace and stability in Syria.

On February 24, the European Union announced the suspension of some sanctions on Syria, specifically regarding the oil, gas, electricity, and transport sectors. This decision precedes a national dialogue by Syria’s interim government, scheduled for February 25, during which efforts towards building a transitional government were set out by President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, who vowed to pursue inclusivity following the ousting of Bashar Assad’s regime.

Despite this promising development, Western leaders remain skeptical about the potential for genuine reform within Syria’s new administration. Lifting all sanctions remains uncertain, as much will depend on the interim government’s ability to deliver on its promises of inclusivity and reforms, and the EU has suggested it may reinstate sanctions should these not be met.

With approximately 90 percent of the Syrian population now living below the poverty line, the necessity to relieve sanctions has been highlighted by experts. Voices within the International Crisis Group and Middle East Institute have noted that for a successful political transition, sanctions, especially those imposed by the United States, must be reevaluated, as they significantly impede economic development.

Nanar Hawach, a senior analyst, emphasized the critical nature of sanctions relief for fostering stability in Syria, stating, “Lifting sanctions is crucial at this moment to promote a stable and peaceful political transition in Syria.” This reflects the widespread concern that continued restrictions could imperil efforts to stabilize and rebuild the war-torn nation.

Human Rights Watch has underlined that ongoing sanctions hinder essential reconstruction and exacerbate suffering for millions who lack basic necessities. Reports indicate a significant proportion of Syrians are struggling to secure adequate food and services. Karam Shaar of the New Lines Institute remarked upon the dire straits, stating, “Without either lifting sanctions or being provided with an injection of funding from abroad, the situation could implode at any moment.”

As discussions surrounding the interim government’s policies progress, skepticism remains regarding the potential for real change. American sanctions are among the strictest, severely limiting financial transactions and necessitating a shift to alleviate economic strife. Reports of delays in the government formation process further underline the precarious nature of Syria’s economic recovery, with experts cautioning against a stringent approach to sanctions.

Despite the EU’s recent easing of some restrictions, experts highlight that more substantial reforms are essential. Kenneth Roth from Human Rights Watch commented on the inadequacies of current measures, stating that the collapse of the former regime does not mitigate the need for an urgent reevaluation of sanctions in light of the humanitarian crisis.

Each analyst underscores the urgent need for a coordinated approach, suggesting that further delays in sanctions relief may reinforce existing economic challenges and worsen the plight of the Syrian people. Hawach concluded, “Without easing economic and trade restrictions, the country risks renewed fighting.”

Ultimately, the potential for rebuilding Syria hinges on lifting sanctions to facilitate economic recovery and political stability. Success demands an inclusive governance approach, participation from a broad array of societal stakeholders, and tangible improvements to daily life for ordinary Syrians, all while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics. Experts emphasize a proactive stance on sanctions relief to prevent deepening humanitarian crises and to foster a viable political transition.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com