The European Union chaired the seventh Brussels Conference on “Supporting the future of Syria and the region”, which took place on 14 and 15 June 2023.
The high level ministerial segment of the conference on 15 June gathered representatives of 57 countries, including EU member states, and over 30 international organisations, including the United Nations, in addition to the EU institutions.
“The Syrian conflict is with us for more than 12 years. It is a long-lasting crisis with unspeakable suffering of millions of people. This was made even worse first by the dramatic and damaging earthquake in February, and because the global situation is worsening – not only due to the Russian aggression against Ukraine, but also with the new conflicts erupting – the latest one is in Sudan. But here we are again in Brussels conference, for the seventh year, discussing the needs, and making pledges for continued assistance. We are the biggest donor for the Syrian people, the EU needs and wants to make sure that their situation remains high on the international agenda.Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
The conference, which is the main pledging event for Syria and the region in 2023, succeeded in mobilising aid to Syrians inside the country and in the neighbouring countries, through international pledges totalling €5.6 billion for 2023 and beyond, including €4.6 billion for 2023 and €1 billion for 2024 and beyond.
From 2011 to date, the European Union and its member states have been the largest donors of humanitarian and resilience assistance to Syria and the region with over €30 billion.
Brussels VII was an opportunity to gather all relevant actors to effectively address the current situation In Syria, offer continued support to UN efforts for a comprehensive political solution to the Syrian conflict, mobilise necessary financial support to meet the needs of Syrian refugees and their host communities in neighbouring countries, as well as pursuing and deepening dialogue with civil society.
Today’s conference reaffirmed the conviction of the international community that a comprehensive political solution brokered through the UN, and enjoying the full support of all its members, remains the ultimate imperative: the Syrian people must get a chance to live in dignity and peace. That is what the EU is working for, standing with the Syrian people until that prospect – however distant it may sometimes appear – will be fulfilled.Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
Source : Consilium
