EU lifts economic sanctions on Syria

The European Union lifted a wide range of economic sanctions on Syria on Wednesday. This action follows the removal of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and reflects the EU’s intent to support Syria’s political transition and economic recovery.

Last week, EU foreign ministers reached a political agreement to revise the bloc’s long-standing sanctions policy. The Council of the European Union confirmed this decision in a formal statement, stating that the EU will continue to support stability, political reform, and accountability in Syria.

EU Shifts Policy After Political Changes in Syria

Since 2011, the EU had imposed comprehensive sanctions in response to Assad’s violent crackdown on civilians. Over time, those restrictions expanded to cover banking, oil exports, investment, and travel by individuals tied to the regime.

Now, following Assad’s removal, EU leaders have adjusted their approach. They believe that easing sanctions on the civilian economy will help Syria rebuild and move toward lasting stability.

EU Removes Economic Restrictions

The new measures lift restrictions in several key sectors:

• Banking and Financial Services: Syrian banks can now reconnect with European financial institutions. This change allows international payments, foreign investment, and currency exchanges to resume.

• Trade and Commerce: The EU lifted bans on goods and services related to agriculture, textiles, and construction. This step will stimulate local businesses and expand trade opportunities.

• Energy Sector: Syria can once again export oil and petroleum products to European markets. As a result, the country may recover a vital source of national revenue.

• Infrastructure and Transport: European companies are now allowed to export materials and equipment needed to rebuild roads, buildings, and communication systems.

These changes aim to encourage economic recovery, attract private investment, and support Syrian civilians after years of war.

EU Maintains Some Sanctions, Adds New Ones

While the EU lifted many economic restrictions, it retained sanctions against individuals involved in past abuses under Assad. These include former government officials, military leaders, and businessmen connected to human rights violations.

In addition, the EU imposed new sanctions on individuals and organizations responsible for violence in March 2025. These measures include:

• Asset Freezes: The EU froze assets held in its jurisdiction by those on the new sanctions list.

• Travel Bans: Sanctioned individuals are no longer allowed to enter or pass through EU countries.

These actions target groups that threaten peace and undermine the current transition.

EU Sets Conditions and Continues Oversight

The European Council made it clear that further cooperation depends on Syria’s progress. It stated that it would continue monitoring developments and would respond to any setbacks.

“The Council will continue monitoring developments on the ground and stands ready to introduce further restrictive measures against human rights violators and those fueling instability in Syria,” the Council said.

Moreover, EU leaders emphasized that lifting sanctions does not mean full political normalization. The EU has not yet announced plans to reopen embassies or launch major aid programs. However, individual member states may propose limited cooperation based on progress in reforms.

International Reaction Remains Divided

So far, the global response has been mixed. Some humanitarian groups welcomed the EU’s move, arguing that it could reduce suffering and improve living conditions. Others expressed concern, warning that removing sanctions too early might delay justice for past crimes.

Still, the EU insists on strict conditions for future engagement. It expects Syria’s new leadership to implement reforms, uphold human rights, and allow international monitoring.

In the coming weeks, the European Commission will likely present proposals for technical and financial support, particularly for healthcare, education, and infrastructure. These programs will only proceed if the situation on the ground continues to improve.

The EU’s decision marks a major shift in its Syria policy after more than a decade of conflict. By lifting economic sanctions, the EU aims to support Syria’s transition, but it also sets clear expectations for political reform and accountability. Going forward, EU leaders will watch closely to ensure that Syria does not return to instability.