European Union foreign ministers are set to convene in Brussels on Monday to discuss the possibility of easing economic sanctions on Syria, marking a potential shift in Europe’s approach to the war-torn nation following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Diplomats expect measures targeting Syria’s energy and transport sectors to be temporarily suspended to support rebuilding efforts and facilitate the return of refugees.
The conference comes amid growing calls from European stakeholders to engage with Syria’s Caretaker Government (SCG)t, led by Ahmad al-Sharaa and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). However, some EU nations remain cautious, expressing concerns over governance issues and the potential risks of financial mismanagement.
Supporting Reconstruction While Maintaining Leverage
The EU has imposed sweeping sanctions on Syria since the start of the conflict, targeting key sectors of the economy and individuals linked to the former regime. While the easing of restrictions could aid reconstruction, European officials emphasize that any relief will be “reversible” and contingent on progress toward a comprehensive political transition.
“There is consensus on suspending sanctions in the energy and transport sectors,” an EU diplomat told AFP. “However, there is no agreement on lifting restrictions on the banking sector due to concerns about potential misuse and terrorist financing.”
EU foreign policy chief Kaya Kallas highlighted that Europe’s engagement with Syria is based on principles of conditionality and accountability. “Any suspension of sanctions must align with progress on governance reforms and inclusivity,” Kallas said.
Differing Views Among EU Member States
Member states remain divided over how quickly to engage with Syria’s new administration. Countries such as Germany, France, and the Netherlands have pushed for a cautious approach, emphasizing the need to retain leverage over Damascus to ensure commitments to minority rights and political inclusivity.
The Dutch government, in particular, has been vocal about the need for a “conditional and temporary” lifting of sanctions. Dutch Foreign Minister Casper Veldkamp, who plans to visit Damascus soon, stated that any relaxation of restrictions should be accompanied by close monitoring to ensure compliance with international standards. “Promoting stability in Syria is in our interest, but it must be accompanied by respect for human rights and political inclusivity,” Veldkamp said in a statement to the Dutch parliament.
Humanitarian & Economic Implications
Officials recognize that lifting sanctions on Syria’s energy and transport sectors could significantly impact the country’s economy. The restoration of transport links, including reopening airports, could facilitate the return of displaced Syrians and support economic recovery.
“The energy and electricity sectors are critical for improving living conditions,” said an EU official familiar with the discussions. “This would stabilize the country and encourage citizens to return, reducing migratory pressures on Europe.”
However, humanitarian organizations warn that ongoing challenges, including food shortages and inadequate access to medical services, require sustained international support. The Dutch special envoy to Syria, Gijs Geerlach, recently described the situation as dire, with 90% of the population living below the poverty line and widespread shortages of basic necessities.
Lingering Challenges and Next Steps
Despite optimism over sanctions relief, significant challenges remain. The EU’s sanctions list still includes al-Sharaa and key figures in HTS, reflecting persistent concerns over governance and security. There is no current discussion on lifting these measures, which could complicate broader diplomatic engagement. “It’s time to rehabilitate Syria, but we must do so with caution,” an EU diplomat concluded.
