EU Announces Political Decision to Lift Economic Sanctions on Syria Amid Post-Assad Transition
May 20, 2025 – Brussels – In a significant policy shift following the fall of the Assad regime, the Council of the European Union has announced its political decision to lift economic sanctions imposed on Syria. The move marks a pivotal step in the EU’s recalibrated approach aimed at supporting Syria’s transition toward stability, unity, and economic recovery.
For over a decade, the EU has maintained a robust sanctions regime targeting the Syrian regime for its widespread human rights abuses and repression. At the same time, the EU has been a leading donor of humanitarian and development aid to the Syrian people, standing by them through years of conflict and displacement.
A Gradual and Reversible Approach
The lifting of economic sanctions follows a gradual and reversible strategy , first initiated in February 2025 when the EU suspended certain restrictive measures as part of efforts to support early recovery and encourage reforms under a transitional government.
The Council emphasized that this decision is intended to empower the Syrian people and create conditions conducive to national reconciliation, reconstruction, and the building of an inclusive, pluralistic, and peaceful Syria — one free from harmful foreign interference.
“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,” the Council stated.
Targeted Sanctions Remain in Place
Despite the lifting of broad economic restrictions, the EU will maintain and adapt its sanctions framework to reflect the current realities on the ground:
- Sanctions targeting members of the Assad regime remain in place, particularly those related to accountability for atrocities committed during the conflict.
- Security-related sanctions , including bans on arms exports and dual-use technologies that could be used for internal repression, will continue.
- The EU also announced plans to introduce new targeted restrictive measures against individuals and entities responsible for ongoing human rights violations or actions undermining Syria’s stability.
These measures are designed to ensure that justice and accountability remain central pillars of the EU’s engagement with Syria.
Engagement with Transitional Authorities
The EU affirmed its readiness to continue engaging with Syria’s transitional government, focusing on concrete steps that safeguard the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all Syrians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation.
This includes monitoring progress on:
- Accountability for past crimes and recent outbreaks of violence
- Respect for democratic principles and civil liberties
- Inclusive governance and transitional justice mechanisms
The Council stressed that it would continue to closely monitor developments , with future decisions on sanctions and assistance contingent upon tangible progress on these fronts.
Leading Role in Syria’s Recovery
The EU reaffirmed its commitment to playing a leading role in Syria’s early recovery and long-term reconstruction , aligning its policies with the evolving situation on the ground. This includes mobilizing international partners and coordinating humanitarian and development aid to support displaced populations and rebuild critical infrastructure.
As part of this renewed engagement, the Council will report back to upcoming Foreign Affairs Council meetings , ensuring that the EU’s sanctions regime remains dynamic, responsive, and aligned with the aspirations of the Syrian people.
The Council issued a statement on the lifting of EU economic sanctions on Syria.
