Syria’s economy remains in dire straits, weighed down by decades of sanctions that continue to hinder recovery even after the fall of the Baathist regime and the establishment of an interim government. These sanctions, originally aimed at pressuring Bashar al-Assad’s regime, have inadvertently deepened the hardships faced by ordinary Syrians.
While exemptions exist for food, medicine, and humanitarian aid, access to basic necessities is still severely restricted. The country grapples with hyperinflation, a crumbling currency, and soaring unemployment, leaving millions in desperate need of relief. Experts argue that lifting sanctions could accelerate economic recovery, rebuild critical infrastructure, and ease the delivery of humanitarian assistance.
Syria’s history with sanctions stretches back to 1979, when the U.S. designated it a state sponsor of terrorism, imposing export bans and financial restrictions. Over the years, these measures intensified, particularly during the Syrian Civil War, targeting key sectors like energy and finance. The 2019 Caesar Act extended sanctions to foreign entities, further isolating the regime.
Similarly, EU sanctions have frozen assets, banned crude oil imports, and restricted investments in Syria’s energy sector. These measures were recently extended until 2025 but are now under review, with European leaders considering conditional relief. The EU stresses the need for an inclusive Syrian government that respects territorial integrity and minority rights.
As discussions about sanctions relief unfold, the international community faces a delicate balancing act: ensuring accountability for past crimes while supporting Syria’s path to recovery and stability.
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