EU Rallies Support for Syria’s Fragile Recovery Under New Islamist-Led Government

The Brussels donor conference marks Syria’s first participation, as international leaders pledge aid for reconstruction and stress the need for an inclusive political transition.

Syria's interim government, led by former Islamist insurgent Ahmed al-Sharaa, is attending the EU-hosted donor conference for the first time since Bashar al-Assad's ouster in December 2024.
The European Union pledged nearly €2.5 billion for 2025-2026, while Germany committed €300 million, focusing on food, health, and emergency services for Syrians inside and outside the country.
Recent sectarian violence, including revenge attacks targeting Assad's Alawite minority, has raised concerns about stability and accountability under the new leadership.
The EU has eased sanctions on key sectors to encourage reconstruction but demands progress toward an inclusive political transition that respects minority rights and reduces extremist risks.
With Syria’s economy and infrastructure devastated by 14 years of civil war, experts estimate reconstruction costs could exceed $400 billion, highlighting the urgency of international aid.