Join this roundtable on EU sanctions and aid in Syria’s reconstruction
In the wake of the December 2024 ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, Syria stands at a pivotal juncture. The European Union's response, particularly concerning sanctions and aid, will significantly influence the nation's trajectory toward reform, stability and reconstruction. This roundtable discussion aims to dissect the evolving role of EU sanctions and aid in shaping Syria's future, bringing together policymakers, economists, and regional experts for a nuanced dialogue.
The first panel will critically evaluate the EU's sanctions regime on Syria, especially in light of recent developments. In January 2025, the EU initiated a 'step-by-step' easing of sanctions, targeting sectors like energy, transport, and banking, contingent upon the new Syrian authorities' adherence to human rights protections and inclusive governance. This session will explore the use of ‘strategic’ sanctions reliefs, its ability to support the political transition in Damascus and, on the contrary, the risk of hindering the restart of the Syrian economy.
The second panel will focus on Syria's prospective path, emphasizing the interplay between aid, sanctions relief and assistance in post-conflict reconstruction. With the EU pledging new aid packages to support Syria's recovery, the discussion will address strategies to ensure that this assistance fosters sustainable development, respects human rights, and promotes regional stability.
This event will be held under Chatham House rules.
At the EUI and the Robert Schuman Centre, we are dedicated to removing barriers and providing equal opportunities for everyone. Please indicate in the registration form your accessibility needs, if any. Alternatively, you can contact the logistics organiser of the event.