For the first time since the EU launched its annual donor conference on Syria in 2017, a Syrian government representative will participate in the event. Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani is set to attend the ninth Brussels Conference on Monday, marking a shift in EU policy that had previously excluded the Syrian government from official participation.
Syria’s Conditional Attendance
Syria’s participation had remained uncertain until late Sunday when sources from the country’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the decision. The ministry had previously warned that it would only engage in the conference if it focused on direct humanitarian assistance rather than political agendas. Syrian officials and human rights groups have also criticized unilateral sanctions imposed by Western nations, arguing they hinder economic recovery and worsen the humanitarian crisis.
While this year’s conference, titled “Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition,” signals a new dynamic in international engagement with Damascus, the EU has made no commitments regarding changes to its sanctions policy.
EU Seeks Aid Contributions Amid US Withdrawal
The conference comes at a critical time, as humanitarian needs in Syria reach record levels. According to the UN, 16.7 million Syrians require international assistance, and ongoing economic decline has left nearly the entire population below the poverty line. Last year’s donor conference raised approximately €7.5 billion ($8.1 billion), with the EU pledging €2.12 billion in aid for 2024 and 2025.
However, this year’s fundraising efforts face uncertainty due to the US decision to scale back its contributions significantly. The US has historically been a leading donor for Syria, and European officials are now seeking increased support from Arab nations to compensate for the shortfall.
An EU official involved in the planning stated, “There is a window of opportunity, but it’s not big enough. We need to act quickly or risk losing momentum.”
Political & Economic Challenges
Syria’s reintegration into international discussions follows broader geopolitical shifts, including efforts by some Arab states to normalize relations with Damascus. However, Western governments remain divided on whether to ease sanctions or engage with Syria beyond humanitarian aid.
Germany has already pledged €300 million in new aid, emphasizing that funds will bypass the Syrian government and be directed toward food assistance, medical services, and support for refugees in neighboring countries. Other European nations are expected to follow a similar approach.
While Syria’s participation in the Brussels Conference is a significant development, questions remain over whether it will translate into tangible improvements for the country’s struggling population. With ongoing international disputes over sanctions, reconstruction, and political reform, the road ahead remains uncertain.
