EU Pledges €2.5 Billion for Syria at Brussels Conference Amidst Shifting Political Landscape

The European Union has pledged €2.5 billion in aid to Syria for 2025 and 2026. The announcement was made at the annual Syria conference in Brussels on March 17. This commitment marks a slight increase from the €2.12 billion allocated for 2024 and 2025. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the EU's increased support during a critical time and urged other participants to follow suit. The EU's funding includes €160 million for 2024, benefiting populations within Syria and refugees in Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq. For 2026, €600 million is earmarked for these three countries, with an additional €1.1 billion allocated to support Syrian refugees and host communities in Turkey. Von der Leyen also noted the EU has suspended sanctions on key economic sectors to attract investment for reconstruction and is prepared to increase support as progress continues. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al Shaibani called for a plan beyond humanitarian aid to lift sanctions and rebuild the country.