Donors pledged €5.8 billion for Syria at a recent conference in Brussels, a decline from last year’s €7.5 billion. The need for greater international support arises amid reduced U.S. funding. Syrian leaders call for further assistance and sanction relief, while the humanitarian situation remains severe with millions in need.
At a conference in Brussels, international donors pledged a total of €5.8 billion ($6.3 billion) in aid for Syria, a significant decrease from last year’s €7.5 billion commitment. The European Union spearheaded this initiative amidst a backdrop of diminished U.S. support, as various nations strive to stabilize the war-torn region following fourteen years of civil conflict. This year marked the first attendance of Syrian authorities, represented by interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani.
Despite promising contributions from nations such as Germany and Britain, tensions arose regarding U.S. funding. U.S. representative Natasha Franceschi acknowledged that while the United States has historically provided over $18.3 billion in assistance, further support from other nations is now necessary to share the financial burden. Franceschi did not indicate if the U.S. would offer new funds but underscored that increased international cooperation is critical.
Syria’s leaders, under Ahmed al-Sharaa, have called for further economic assistance to foster recovery while also seeking sanction relief. Shibani expressed appreciation for the EU’s slight easing of sanctions and urged for additional measures to aid in Syria’s rehabilitation. The violence, particularly along Syria’s Mediterranean coast, which resulted in the deaths of nearly 1,500 civilians, has undermined trust in the new administration’s promises of justice and inclusivity.
Despite some political advancements, such as a new constitutional declaration and promised rights for citizens, the humanitarian situation remains dire. An estimated 16.7 million Syrians are in need of assistance, leading humanitarian leaders like Mirjana Spoljaric to warn that withdrawing support now would exacerbate the crisis. International organizations, including the UN, have indicated it could take Syria over fifty years to recover economically from the war if current conditions persist.
In conclusion, the recent conference in Brussels underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Syria and its international supporters. The notable decline in aid funding reflects shifting geopolitical dynamics and the impact of diminished U.S. support. As Syria grapples with a severe humanitarian crisis, the international community’s unified efforts and heightened contributions become increasingly essential for recovery. Despite marginal political progress, the country’s path towards stability remains fraught with obstacles, necessitating continued commitment from global partners to avert further suffering among its citizens.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
