Syria Attends Donor Conference Amid Critical Political Transition

Syria participated in the Brussels IX Donor Conference for the first time, marking a pivotal moment as the country undergoes a major political transition.

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani joined international donors, Western allies, regional partners, and UN agencies to discuss strategies for stabilization, reconstruction, and humanitarian aid. The European Union (EU) pledged €2.5 billion ($2.7 billion) in assistance for 2025-2026, urging others to step up support.

However, the United States has yet to commit, as the Trump administration reviews its foreign aid policies. Meanwhile, the EU is cautiously easing some sanctions to encourage Syria’s new leadership but maintains restrictions on security-related sectors.

Syria’s economic collapse, coupled with ongoing security concerns and sectarian violence, has left the nation in dire need of reconstruction efforts. The UN estimates a $250-400 billion cost for rebuilding, with nearly 7 million people displaced and over 4.7 million refugees in neighboring countries.

International donors face a dilemma—balancing humanitarian support while ensuring Syria’s transition is inclusive, stable, and free from foreign interference. Experts stress that continued engagement is crucial to preventing economic collapse and extremist resurgence in the war-torn nation.