Let’s support Syrians in rebuilding

After the sudden collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s brutal regime in Syria, the country aims to rebuild. While the geopolitical implications and the humanitarian situation in the region are debated in the European Parliament, Greens/EFA MEP Hannah Neumann, the Group’s coordinator in the Committee on Foreign Affairs, comments on the situation:

"After years of darkness and brutal oppression, a new dawn is breaking in Syria. As Syrians work to shape their future, the European Union must support them with humanitarian aid and back a Syrian-led process for peace, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254. All while holding Assad accountable for his crimes. Syrians must lead the way in creating a government where everyone sits at the table - women, minorities, and those still in the diaspora included.

"To rebuild the country, we need Syrians on the ground, especially those who fled Assad’s brutal regime. While forced returns are unrealistic, voluntary returns can succeed if Syrians are free to assess the situation and prepare. That’s why we call for a temporary exception to asylum rules, allowing Syrians to travel back without losing their status. 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."

Background:

The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime brings an end to 54 years of brutality, repression, and terror. Over 500,000 lives were lost during the civil war in the last 13 years, millions were displaced, and an entire nation was left in ruins. MEP Hannah Neumann outlined key priorities on how to achieve a peaceful and just transition to a better Syria.

In today's plenary debate at the European Parliament in Strasbourg from 09.00 to 11.50, MEPs Neumann, Mounir Satouri, Tineke Strik, Isabella Lövin, Leoluca Orlando and Jaume Asens will address the situation.