The EU has partly lifted sanctions on Syria, but full relief hinges on the performance of its interim government. Rights groups assert that lifting restrictions is essential for economic recovery and political stability as the country shifts from the Assad regime. Experts caution that ongoing sanctions could worsen conditions for Syrians and undermine recovery efforts.
In a significant move ahead of Syria’s national dialogue on February 25, the European Union has partially lifted sanctions against the regime previously led by Bashar Assad. Despite this gesture, a complete and consistent lifting of all restrictions is not guaranteed, as Western leaders remain skeptical about the establishment of an inclusive government that would implement essential reforms.
On February 24, the EU announced a suspension of restrictions on Syria’s oil, gas, electricity, and transport sectors, as well as easing the banking ban for humanitarian transactions. Five financial institutions were also removed from asset freezes, facilitating fund transfers to Syria’s central bank. This decision coincided with preparations for a national dialogue led by President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, appointed to lead until March 1.
Al-Sharaa and his militia, Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, which overthrew the Assad regime, presented the dialogue as a critical step toward democracy and reconstruction. However, critics highlighted the rapid organization of the event, which attracted around 600 delegates and aimed to initiate a new constitution and institutional reforms. Rights groups emphasize that lifting sanctions is crucial for Syria’s economic recovery.
Nanar Hawach, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, stated that “lifting sanctions is crucial at this moment to promote a stable and peaceful political transition in Syria.” Similarly, Ibrahim Al-Assil noted that rebuilding Syria’s middle class is essential for a successful political transition that cannot occur without lifting restrictions.
The restrictions imposed over the last decade have caused severe damage to Syria’s economy, limiting the populace’s ability to engage politically. Al-Assil warned that prolonging sanctions could threaten the fragile transitional government, jeopardizing the establishment of a stable and inclusive future.
Furthermore, Human Rights Watch has indicated that current sanctions hinder reconstruction efforts and worsen the dire living conditions of many Syrians, with over half lacking access to nutritious food and 16.5 million needing humanitarian assistance. Karam Shaar noted that without lifting sanctions or obtaining international funding, the situation in Syria could deteriorate.
Concerns over US sanctions have also delayed promised aid from Qatar to support Syria’s public sector, underscoring international hesitancy in economic engagement with the new regime. The EU indicated that the continuation of sanctions relief is contingent upon the performance of the interim government, warning that sanctions may be reinstated if reforms are not implemented.
Despite ethnic minorities expressing fears for their future under the new regime, Al-Sharaa’s administration has invited diverse groups to discussions. However, political analysts suggest that symbolic gestures alone will not suffice. The formation of a new government is expected to be postponed, potentially delaying further sanctions relief.
Aid agencies have cautioned that further inaction on sanctions could have dire consequences during this pivotal transition period. Kenneth Roth, the former executive director of Human Rights Watch, advocates for preemptive sanction relief. He stated, “The continuing sanctions are a big impediment to economic progress.”
Roth’s concerns reflect broader apprehensions regarding the impacts of ongoing US sanctions intended to hinder the Assad regime; these measures have inadvertently exacerbated conditions for ordinary Syrians. As the international landscape shifts post-Assad’s regime collapse, the urgency of removing sanctions becomes increasingly vital for stability and recovery.
While easing sanctions is recognized as crucial, analysts such as Humam Aljazaeri emphasize that this alone cannot reconstruct Syria. Effective recovery will necessitate decisive actions from the new government, as any failed attempts could further deepen societal divisions. Analysts agree that sanctions relief is essential to revitalize the economy and improve living conditions, with ongoing economic damage posing a risk of renewed conflict.
In conclusion, the partial lifting of sanctions by the EU represents a significant yet cautious step in supporting Syria’s recovery in the aftermath of regime change. Analysts and rights advocates stress the necessity of sanction relief to facilitate economic recovery and promote stability within the new governance framework. However, there remains skepticism about whether the interim government can meet the expectations of various factions while prioritizing effective governance and protection for all communities within Syria. As the international community observes the evolving situation, the complexity surrounding sanction policies illustrates the delicate balance required to support a dignified transition for the Syrian people.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
