Strasbourg (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – MEP Hannah Neumann called for EU support in rebuilding Syria, emphasizing a Syrian-led peace process and accountability for Assad.
In a plenary discussion at the European Parliament, Greens/EFA MEP Hannah Neumann the Group’s coordinator in the Committee on Foreign Affairs talked about the sudden failure of Bashar al-Assad’s brutal regime in Syria and geopolitical implications and the humanitarian circumstances in the region.Â
The downfall of Bashar al-Assad’s government brings a stop to 54 years of cruelty, repression, and terror. Around 500,000 lives were lost during the civil battle in the last 13 years, millions were expelled, and a whole nation was left in disrepair.
How can the EU support Syria’s reconstruction post-Assad?
MEP Hannah Neumann stated that after years of darkness and cruel oppression, a new beginning is breaking in Syria. She said as Syrians labour to shape their destiny, the European Union must help them with humanitarian assistance and support a Syrian-led process for peace, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254. She also noted that Assad should be held accountable for his offences. She points out that Syrians must guide the way in forming a government where everyone poses at the table including females, minorities, and the diaspora.
MEP Hannah Neumann also outlined key preferences on how to attain a peaceful and just transition to a better Syria. She emphasised that to rebuild the country, the EU needs Syrians on the ground, particularly those who fled Assad’s brutal government. While pushed returns are unrealistic, unforced returns can prevail if Syrians are free to evaluate the situation and prepare.
She also called for a temporary exception to asylum regulations, permitting Syrians to travel back without relinquishing their status. She stated: “Let’s move beyond toxic debates and support Syrians in rebuilding a democratic and peaceful homeland—a Syria that is finally a home for all.”
