The EU has eased certain sanctions on the Assad regime as negotiations for Syria’s national dialogue begin. Despite these measures, comprehensive sanction relief remains conditional, as the new government must prove its commitment to reforms. Experts argue that lifting U.S. sanctions is essential for Syria’s recovery and to avoid renewed cycles of conflict as the nation strategies its transition post-Assad.
Ahead of Syria’s national dialogue scheduled for February 25, the EU has alleviated some sanctions on the ousted Bashar Assad regime, signaling a gesture of goodwill. Nonetheless, the complete removal of all sanctions remains uncertain, as Western leaders doubt the formation of an inclusive government capable of instigating necessary reforms. On February 24, the EU lifted restrictions on key sectors, facilitating humanitarian assistance, reconstruction, and banking transactions.
The EU has also unblocked five financial institutions from sanctions, allowing certain funds to reach Syria’s central bank. This move comes before the interim government’s national dialogue, where President Ahmad Al-Sharaa committed to establishing an inclusive transitional government. Despite a rushed preparation, the forum attracted roughly 600 participants, aiming to embark on drafting a new constitution and reforming institutions.
Rights organizations advocate for a comprehensive lifting of sanctions, especially those imposed by the U.S., arguing that this is critical for Syria’s economic recovery and political transition. Nanar Hawach from the International Crisis Group remarked, “Lifting sanctions is crucial at this moment to promote a stable and peaceful political transition in Syria.” Additionally, Ibrahim Al-Assil emphasized that restoring Syria’s middle class is vital for meaningful political change.
Concerns from Human Rights Watch highlighted that ongoing sanctions are obstructing reconstruction efforts and worsening the living conditions of millions of Syrians. A staggering 16.5 million people currently require humanitarian aid, exacerbated by limited access to food and basic necessities. Karam Shaar stated, “Without either lifting sanctions or being provided with an injection of funding from abroad… the situation could implode at any moment.”
However, the EU remains cautious, indicating any sanction relief would depend on the new government’s actions. Kaja Kallas, EU’s chief diplomat, warned that reinstating sanctions is possible if significant reforms aren’t implemented. This cautious approach has led to delayed funding commitments from countries like Qatar, aiming to raise public sector salaries significantly.
While Al-Sharaa has yet to form a technocratic government by the March 1 deadline, he established a committee tasked with drafting a temporary constitution. Analysts note that balancing the expectations of diverse factions poses a formidable challenge for Al-Sharaa. Continued symbolic gestures are insufficient; tangible results are necessary to validate his leadership.
Media reports have suggested further delays in government formation could occur, impacting decisions on sanction relief. Experts warn that a wait-and-see strategy regarding sanctions could jeopardize Syria’s transition opportunities. Kenneth Roth argued that Western governments should lift sanctions now, contingent on Syria’s adherence to human rights, rather than delaying significant changes.
Syria has faced stringent sanctions for decades, but their aftermaths intensified following the regime’s harsh crackdowns starting in 2011. The U.S. has enforced one of the most extensive sanction frameworks, severely restricting trade and financial interactions with Syria, especially after the implementation of the Caesar Act in 2019.
The civil war has devastated infrastructure, displacing 90% of the population below the poverty line and crippling essential services. The historic sanctions continue to affect daily life even after the Assad regime’s collapse. Recent adjustments, such as the U.S. General License No. 24, provide some transaction flexibility but are insufficient to revitalize Syria’s banking and overall economic sectors.
Analysts deem easing sanctions crucial for both economic recovery and political regeneration in Syria. Shaar pointed to the necessity of re-establishing banking connections as a vital step towards stability. While many analysts remain skeptical about significant changes in U.S. sanctions soon, they note that easing restrictions is essential for building a more stable governance framework.
Despite apprehensions that connecting sanctions relief to government measures may hinder progress, Western officials seek assurance that Syria’s new leadership will uphold inclusive governance and protect various ethnic and religious groups. As Al-Sharaa navigates these pressures, the enduring concerns about extremist elements within his coalition linger, especially regarding the HTS group’s violent history.
The EU’s recent sanction relief signifies a cautious step towards stabilizing the transitional government in Syria. However, full economic recovery hinges on lifting U.S. sanctions and holistic reforms by the new leadership. Experts stress the necessity for tangible governance improvements and international support to prevent renewed conflict, advocating that easing restrictions is vital for Syria’s reconstruction and political advancement amid ongoing humanitarian crises.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
