UN Syria envoy Pedersen hints at possible sanctions policy change in March

DARAMSUQ (DAMASCUS), Syria — As Syria stands at a political crossroads, UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen has expressed hope that the formation of an inclusive government by March 1 could be a decisive factor in lifting Western sanctions that exacerbated the harsh living conditions in an already economic crippled country. In an interview with the Associated Press, Pedersen emphasized that such a step would not only foster reconciliation among Syrian factions but also unlock opportunities for economic recovery. “What I hope is that with a truly inclusive government in place by March 1, we will be in a stronger position to push for the lifting of sanctions,” Pedersen stated during his visit to Daramsuq (Damascus). 

The West Watches Cautiously 

The Transitional Government, formed by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, now ‘dissolved’, following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December, is currently working to establish an administration that includes diverse Syrian communities. However, skepticism remains among Western powers. The United States and European Union have made it clear that they want to see concrete steps toward inclusive governance before considering sanctions relief. “There’s a desire to move forward, but it hinges on the actions of the new Syrian leadership,” a senior European diplomat told Reuters on condition of anonymity. 

European Union prepares to ease sanctions 

In a parallel development, the EU is preparing to suspend key sanctions on Syria’s energy, transport, and reconstruction sectors. According to a draft declaration set to be discussed in Brussels on February 24, EU foreign ministers are considering easing restrictions that have long hindered financial transactions crucial for rebuilding Syria’s devastated infrastructure. “The plan is to lift several restrictive measures to facilitate financial and banking transactions in these sectors, alongside extending a humanitarian exemption indefinitely,” an EU official told Reuters. 

The potential rollback of sanctions signals a shift in the EU’s approach to Syria’s recovery, but it remains contingent on whether the new government follows through on promises of inclusive governance. 

On the Ground: a country still in ruins 

Despite these high-level diplomatic efforts, the reality on the ground in Syria remains dire. Many returning residents, particularly in war-ravaged cities like Saraqib, face insurmountable challenges. Homes lie in ruins, essential services such as electricity and water remain scarce, and employment opportunities are virtually nonexistent. “It smells of blood and barrel bombs,” a resident of Saraqib told The Financial Times. “We need help, but the sanctions make it impossible for aid to reach us the way we need it.” Humanitarian organizations have repeatedly urged the West to reconsider sanctions that hinder reconstruction, warning that failing to do so could lead to further instability and suffering. 

A race against time 

With March 1 approaching, the formation of a truly inclusive Syrian government has taken on new urgency. The world watches as Syria’s new leaders navigate political complexities, balancing internal pressures with external expectations. If they succeed, it could mark the beginning of a long-awaited path to recovery. If they fail, the Syrian people may continue to bear the brunt of economic hardship and geopolitical gridlock. 

For now, hope lingers, but so does uncertainty.