The Ninth Brussels Conference on 17 March aims to support Syria through a transitional period following the Assad regime’s decline. The EU and UN are focused on mobilizing international assistance and fostering a Syrian-led, inclusive recovery. Ongoing cooperation will address humanitarian needs, displacement issues, and justice for the affected population. A workshop on socio-economic recovery will be held following the conference discussions.
On 17 March, the European Union will organize the Ninth Brussels Conference, themed “Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition.” This significant gathering aims to demonstrate ongoing support for the Syrian population during a crucial transitional phase in their nation’s history. With the decline of the Assad regime, Syrians are presented with an opportunity to redefine their future. The EU and the UN affirm their commitment to a Syrian-led, inclusive transition that addresses urgent humanitarian requirements and supports long-term economic recovery and stabilization efforts, ultimately striving for a free, peaceful, and prosperous Syria.
A central aim of the Brussels Conference is to garner international support for Syria’s transition while encouraging pledges for humanitarian and non-humanitarian assistance. This includes providing sustained support for Syrians both within the country and in host communities across Jordan, Lebanon, Türkiye, Egypt, and Iraq. Additionally, the conference underscores the necessity of a coordinated response to address immediate and long-term needs effectively.
The EU and UN have established a long-standing partnership in responding to the Syrian crisis. The EU advocates for a UN-mediated, Syrian-led political solution, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2254 and the 2012 Geneva Communiqué. The EU actively collaborates with regional and international partners, alongside Syrian civil society, to strengthen the UN-led Geneva process.
Since 2011, the EU and its Member States have provided over €30 billion to assist those impacted by the Syrian conflict, making the EU the largest global donor in this crisis. This aid includes humanitarian assistance and initiatives for stabilization and resilience-building within Syria and its neighboring countries.
The cooperation between the EU and the UN also aims to address the displacement crisis by ensuring that refugee returns align with UNHCR standards, maintaining they are voluntary, safe, and dignified. The EU is committed to facilitating humanitarian organizations’ access to monitor return conditions while providing essential services to returnees.
Moreover, the EU aligns with UN mechanisms promoting justice and accountability through bodies such as the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) and the UN Commission of Inquiry. Additionally, the EU endorses UN initiatives aimed at clarifying the fates of Syria’s missing individuals to promote lasting justice and reconciliation.
Furthering its commitment, the EU will host a civil society event in Damascus later this year, ensuring continued dialogue with Syrian communities and stakeholders. Additionally, the European Commission’s Directorate-General for the Middle East, North Africa, and the Gulf will conduct a senior-level workshop on 18 March, focusing on “How to ensure coordinated international support to Syria’s socio-economic recovery?” This workshop aims to build on earlier ministerial discussions, emphasizing Syria’s socio-economic recovery while addressing key challenges and exploring strategies for stabilization and job creation.
The Ninth Brussels Conference serves as a platform to reaffirm the European Union and United Nations’ commitment to supporting the Syrian people during this transformative period. Through substantial financial aid and coordinated efforts, the EU and UN aim to facilitate a successful transition towards stability, addressing humanitarian needs, and advocating for justice and accountability. The conference highlights the importance of international collaboration to foster a peaceful future for Syria.
Original Source: unric.org
