EU Lifts Most Economic Sanctions on Syria in Major Policy Shift

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent

(Worthy News) – The European Union on Wednesday passed legislation to lift all economic sanctions on Syria, with the exception of those tied to security and human rights concerns, marking a significant policy shift aimed at supporting the war-torn nation’s reconstruction.

The move allows the Syrian Central Bank and other financial institutions to re-enter European financial markets, paving the way for accelerated rebuilding efforts. The decision will take effect once published in the EU’s Official Journal and implements a political agreement reached by EU foreign ministers last week.

“This decision is simply the right thing to do,” said EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. “The EU reaffirms its commitment as a partner for transition, one that helps the Syrian people reunite and rebuild a new, inclusive, peaceful Syria.”

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul echoed that sentiment, stating that the post-Assad leadership must engage all segments of society. “A united Syria must be inclusive, drawing in all religious groups and communities,” he said.

However, the decision has sparked criticism from human rights groups and some EU lawmakers who argue that the bloc is moving too quickly without sufficient guarantees of political reform or accountability.

“This sends the wrong message to those still grieving the atrocities committed under the Assad regime,” said Anneliese Voss, a member of the European Parliament’s human rights committee. “Without justice for victims and a transparent transition, this risks whitewashing the past.”

Human rights advocates also warned that lifting economic sanctions could benefit former regime figures still embedded in Syria’s financial system. “There’s a danger that the same networks responsible for repression will now profit from European reinvestment,” said Philippe Dam of Human Rights Watch.

In response, EU officials stressed that sanctions targeting individuals and organizations linked to past abuses remain in place. Export restrictions on weapons and surveillance technology will also remain in place.

Still, the EU expressed hope that stabilization and reconstruction could pave the way for the voluntary return of hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees now residing in Europe.

“We’re opening a door to a new Syria,” said Kallas. “But the responsibility for walking through it lies with its leaders.”

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