Donors pledged €5.8 billion in aid for Syria at a Brussels conference, a decrease from last year. The funding addressed serious humanitarian needs in the wake of ongoing violence and declining U.S. support. Syrian officials were included for the first time, emphasizing a request for increased aid and a commitment to a peaceful transition.
On Monday, donors pledged €5.8 billion (approximately $6.3 billion) in aid for Syria during a conference in Brussels, led predominantly by the European Union. However, this amount marks a significant decrease from the €7.5 billion pledged at the previous year’s conference, as support from the United States declines. The funding is critical as the region continues to deal with the aftermath of 14 years of civil conflict and the ongoing refugee crisis.
For the first time, Syrian authorities were present at the conference, represented by interim Foreign Minister Assaad al-Shibani. Despite this development, escalating violence in the region raised concerns regarding the stability of the newly formed authorities. The EU’s total pledge included €4.2 billion in grants and €1.6 billion in loans, showcasing a commitment to address the humanitarian crisis. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the necessity for increased support for Syrians, both abroad and those contemplating returning.
Significant contributions during the conference came from individual nations, notably Germany and the United Kingdom, contributing $330 million and $210 million respectively. Nevertheless, the U.S. aid budget cuts under President Donald Trump severely affected the overall funding landscape, with U.S. representative Natasha Franceschi highlighting that while the U.S. had historically been a major donor, it now expected greater financial involvement from other nations.
In their appeals for additional assistance, Syria’s new leadership under Ahmed al-Sharaa expressed urgency for aid to facilitate the nation’s recovery. The EU has relaxed some sanctions but insists that the Syrian government must honor commitments to an inclusive transition. Al-Shibani acknowledged the EU’s efforts, yet urged for more substantial measures to support the recovery process amidst ongoing humanitarian challenges.
The ongoing violence, notably recent incidents resulting in civilian casualties, has further complicated the situation, undermining confidence in the new administration. Al-Shibani asserted a commitment to justice for those responsible for violence, advocating for a sense of citizenship among all Syrians regardless of their background.
Despite the challenges, experts warn against disengagement from Syria. Mirjana Spoljaric of the International Committee of the Red Cross cautioned that withdrawing humanitarian aid could exacerbate the suffering of millions and impede the nation’s recovery efforts, which are already projected to take decades at current growth rates.
In summary, the recent aid conference in Brussels resulted in a pledge of €5.8 billion for Syria, reflecting a notable decline from the previous year, primarily due to diminished U.S. contributions. The inclusion of Syrian authorities at the conference highlights shifting dynamics, albeit amid increasing violence in the country. Calls for further assistance and sanctions relief are pertinent as Syria continues to navigate a dire humanitarian crisis, which demands sustained international support for effective recovery and stability.
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