The EU’s first donor conference for Syria aims to support its transition post-Assad, focusing on humanitarian aid and economic recovery. The new government seeks legitimacy and aid amidst ongoing violence and infrastructure challenges while managing regional skepticism towards Islamist leadership. UN officials express optimism about operational conditions, underscoring the critical need for recovery efforts.
The European Union has convened a significant donor conference in Brussels for Syria, marking the first participation of the Syrian government since the ousting of President Bashar Assad last December. This one-day meeting aims to garner support for a peaceful transition in Syria, with attendance by various nations, regional neighbors, and UN agencies. Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani will represent Syria, emphasizing the urgency following the transformative changes within the country.
Syria’s new leadership is faced with the daunting task of reclaiming and rebuilding its territories, significantly impacted during fourteen years of civil war. Experts estimate the cost of reconstruction to be between $250 billion and $400 billion. Nonetheless, the interim government seeks to enhance its legitimacy internationally and potentially lift ongoing Western sanctions while also addressing immediate aid needs.
The EU’s support, however, is complicated by recent violence including targeted attacks linked to revenge against Assad’s Alawite sect, which have raised concerns about stability. The EU emphasizes respect for Syria’s sovereignty, advocating for a peaceful and inclusive transition, devoid of foreign interference, while keeping citizens’ rights in focus.
Amid ongoing factional violence, interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa has implemented a temporary constitution, maintaining Islamist governance for the next five years. While the ouster of Assad is welcomed by many, ethnic and religious minorities express wariness under the new leadership, reflecting fears of loss of control over their regions.
The EU remains cautious in its approach, with potential for reintroducing sanctions if the situation deteriorates. Currently, Syria’s economy is in peril, with widespread unemployment and infrastructure damage. Approximately seven million individuals are displaced internally, while over 4.7 million registered refugees reside in neighboring countries, though some have returned since the regime change.
Despite these challenges, optimism exists as UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher reports improved operational conditions within Syria since the Assad regime’s fall. He highlighted productive discussions with the interim authorities, underscoring the necessity for infrastructure recovery, job creation, and effective humanitarian aid to catalyze economic progress in the region.
The EU-hosted donor conference for Syria represents a pivotal moment in the country’s ongoing transition following the departure of President Assad. While the interim government aims to secure international legitimacy and financial support for reconstruction, deep-seated societal issues and recent escalations of violence pose serious challenges. The successful recovery of Syria’s economy and infrastructure requires a sustained commitment to peace and cooperation among both domestic and international stakeholders.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
