Source: European Parliament
The EU strongly condemns the deadly attacks against civilians in Syria. On 11 March 2025, the High Representative/Vice-President issued a statement on behalf of the EU strongly condemning the horrific crimes against civilians in the coastal areas and calling for a swift, transparent and impartial investigation to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice[1].
The EU welcomed the commitments made by the transitional authorities, particularly the establishment of an independent investigative committee and called on the transitional authorities to allow the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic to investigate all violations. The EU will follow closely the outcomes of the investigations conducted by both national and international mechanisms.
The EU consistently supports a peaceful and inclusive Syrian-led political transition, grounded on the respect for international law, human rights, fundamental freedoms, pluralism and tolerance among all components of society as well as on the values of rule of law and accountability.
It urges the involved parties to protect Syrians from all ethnic and religious background without discrimination. In this context, it welcomes the commitments of the transitional authorities in this respect, stressing the importance of these commitments to be followed up with actions.
Since 2011, the EU and the Member States have mobilised nearly 37 billion EUR in response to the Syrian crisis, representing the largest donors of humanitarian and stabilisation assistance to Syria and the region.
The EU’s humanitarian assistance is delivered through certified partners and based on people’s needs, humanitarian principles and accountability, emphasising transparency, efficiency and effectiveness .
The EU’s non-humanitarian assistance is subjected to extensive monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, including third party monitoring.
On 24 February 2025, the EU suspended several restrictive measures as part of a gradual, conditional and reversible approach to support an inclusive political transition and economic recovery. At the same time, the Council maintained listings related to the Assad regime[2].