EU lifts Syria sanctions: A new beginning after Assad?

EU lifts Syria sanctions: A new beginning after Assad?

The European Union lifted economic sanctions against Syria around six months after the fall of Bashar al-Assad. This was announced by EU chief diplomat Kaja Kallas in Brussels after the EU foreign ministers made the decision. The repeal mainly affects the Syrian banking system, which previously had no access to the international capital market. The US under President Trump has also already announced that it will stop its economic sanctions against Syria, which has increased pressure on the EU to act similarly. Kallas expressed his desire to stand with the Syrian people in building a new, inclusive and peaceful Syria while political and economic conditions in the country remain extremely tense.

The EU has already decided on a gradual easing of sanctions at the end of February 2025 in order to support the Syrian economy and reconstruction. However, despite the lifting, a number of sanctions remain in force, particularly against individuals and organizations linked to the Assad regime or deemed responsible for human rights abuses. The export restrictions on weapons and technologies for internal repression also remain in place.

Challenges in Syrian politics

The current political situation in Syria is precarious. After the collapse of the Assad government in December 2024 as a result of attacks by the rebel group HTS, its leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is the new president and has set up an interim government. This relies on an opening of the market, which could mean a fundamental change in the Syrian economy. However, there are numerous points of friction, including the Kurds' aspirations for autonomy in the northeast and ongoing conflicts with Assad supporters.

The Syrian economy, hit by sanctions, has been badly hit after more than a decade of civil war. According to reports, gross domestic product more than halved between 2010 and 2021. German Foreign Office chief Wadephul sees the lifting of sanctions as an opportunity for the new Syrian leadership, but warns of the need for an inclusive policy.

Fears and outlook

Despite the relief, there are voices of concern. US Secretary of State Rubio has warned of a possible collapse of the new Syrian government and a full-scale civil war. Given the ongoing violence and tensions between different population groups within Syria, it remains unclear whether EU measures can actually contribute to stabilizing the country and whether Syrian refugees will return to the EU.

The foundations for long-term peace and stability in Syria remain precarious, and the path to an inclusive and friendly environment remains rocky. International engagement will be crucial to address the challenges in the region.

Further details on the lifting of sanctions can be found at BR.de and ZDF.de.