EU to lift some sanctions against Syria

Following on from an easing since February, the European Union said, 20 May, that it has made the ‘political decision’ to lift its economic sanctions on Syria. It says, “Now is the time for the Syrian people to have the chance to reunite and rebuild a new, inclusive, pluralistic and peaceful Syria free from harmful foreign interference.”

But, it says, it will maintain sanctions related to the Assad regime, as well as restricting arms and technology that actors might use for internal oppression. It also says that it plans to introduce new sanctions ‘against human rights violators and those fuelling instability in Syria.’

It said, ‘The EU will continue to engage with the transitional government on the steps it pursues to fulfil the aspirations and safeguard the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all the Syrian people, without distinction. The EU will continue monitoring developments on the ground, including progress on accountability with regard to recent violence outbreaks, as well as the effects of today’s decision, including in view of upcoming Foreign Affairs Council meetings. The Council will remain seized on the matter of restrictive measures and sanctions in the context of Syria.’