HRW urges EU to revise sanctions for better aid access in Syria

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News websites + Agencies
18 Dec 2024 14:28

Deputy Director for the Middle East and North Africa Division at Human Rights Watch discussed the EU's potential approach to Syria's new regime.

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A United Nations convoy visits northwestern Syria ahead of the annual fundraising conference organized by the European Union for the country, as they cross the Bab al-Hawa border crossing with Turkey, in Syria's Idlib province, Tuesday, May 14, 2024 (AP Photo/Omar Albam)

Human Rights Watch has called on the EU to reassess its sanctions on Syria, stating that they obstruct humanitarian aid and exacerbate the economic challenges faced by Syrians.

Deputy Director for the Middle East and North Africa Division at Human Rights Watch discussed the EU's potential approach to Syria's new regime in an episode of Radio Schuman.

In a related context, the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, emphasized the significance of Syria's reconstruction for the EU, hinting at the bloc’s potential involvement in rebuilding efforts in a post-Assad Syria.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara, she stressed the need for dialogue with all parties in Syria to advance reconstruction efforts.

Von der Leyen announced plans to send the head of the EU Delegation back to Damascus, effectively reopening the EU’s embassy there. She added, “We have to step up and continue our direct engagement with HTS and other factions,” referencing Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the new regime forces leading the recent offensive that captured Damascus on December 8.

Rebuilding Syria is a priority

The European Commission President called for a renewed focus on rebuilding the country after 13 years of civil war. “We will enhance our engagement in early recovery, including basic services, like electricity and water, and infrastructure,” she stated.

Von der Leyen noted that humanitarian aid for 2024 has already surpassed €160 million ($168 million), alongside the launch of a humanitarian air bridge expected to deliver its first shipments this week.

She also mentioned that lifting sanctions on Syria is under consideration. “Since 2011, our annual Syria conferences have mobilized over €33 billion. We must continue this support with a new focus on reconstruction. This would be a step-by-step approach, and we would need to start a discussion on sanctions relief,” she explained.

She acknowledged Turkiye’s security concerns in Syria and its military presence, opposing efforts by the PKK/YPG to establish a "terrorist belt" near its border. Additionally, she commended Turkiye’s role in hosting over four million Syrian refugees and announced an additional €1 billion in EU funding for Türkiye’s refugee support efforts in 2024.

“Since 2011, the EU has provided nearly €10 billion to support refugees and the hosting efforts of local communities. I am very pleased to announce today that an additional €1 billion for 2024 is on its way,” von der Leyen said.