The European Union’s latest move to impose additional sanctions on individuals and organizations associated with the Syrian regime serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of Russia’s escalating involvement in the conflict. The new package of sanctions, which targets the production and trade of Captagon, human rights violations, and economic deals with Russia, underscores the EU’s determination to pressure the Syrian regime into reform.
As the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate, with over 90% of Syrians living below the poverty line and 70% dependent on food aid, the international community is grappling with the complexities of a long-standing conflict. The EU’s actions mark a significant shift in its approach, as it seeks to address the root causes of the crisis and prevent further destabilization.
Historically, the EU has maintained a tough stance against the Syrian regime, imposing sanctions since 2011 in response to the outbreak of protests. These measures have targeted individuals and organizations responsible for human rights abuses, arms smuggling, and other forms of repression. The latest round of sanctions, however, takes a more comprehensive approach, focusing on the regime’s lucrative drug trade and economic ties with Russia.
“By targeting the revenue models that fuel the Syrian conflict, the EU is sending a clear signal to President Assad and his inner circle that their actions have consequences,” notes Mark Bray, Senior Researcher at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “This move demonstrates the EU’s commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution to the crisis and promoting stability in the region.”
The sanctions package consists of three key components:
1. Sanctions against Captagon production and trade: The EU is imposing sanctions on those responsible for the production, trade, and distribution of Captagon, a highly addictive amphetamine that has become a major driver of the Syrian conflict. The regime’s involvement in this lucrative trade enables it to maintain its grip on power while perpetuating human suffering.
“The Captagon trade is a symptom of a larger problem – a system that prioritizes profit over people,” notes Dr. Sarah Phillips, Senior Fellow at the Middle East Institute. “By targeting this trade, the EU is addressing a key aspect of the regime’s revenue stream and demonstrating its commitment to supporting a more just and equitable future for Syrians.”
2. Sanctions against human rights violators: The EU is imposing sanctions on individuals and organizations responsible for serious human rights abuses by the Syrian regime. This includes military officers and militias who have perpetrated massacres, torture, and other forms of violence against civilians.
“The international community has a responsibility to hold those accountable for such atrocities,” notes Majed Es-Soussi, Former Deputy Chief of Staff to the Iraqi Prime Minister. “The EU’s actions in this regard demonstrate its commitment to upholding human rights and promoting accountability.”
3. Sanctions due to economic deals with Russia: The EU is also imposing sanctions on entities that have facilitated economic deals between the Syrian regime and Russia. This includes agreements that enable Syria to export valuable raw materials, such as phosphate, to Russia.
“The Russian-Syrian economic partnership has had devastating consequences for Syrians,” notes Dr. Kelsey Vrentas, Senior Researcher at the Peterson Institute for International Economics. “By targeting these deals, the EU is sending a clear message that its support for a peaceful resolution to the crisis will not be undermined by economic interests.”
The sanctions package marks a significant escalation in the EU’s efforts to pressure the Syrian regime into reform. With assets frozen and trade restrictions imposed, the regime faces a credible threat of further isolation. The international community should continue to press for a negotiated settlement that addresses the root causes of the conflict and promotes stability in the region.
As the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate, it is essential that policymakers prioritize a comprehensive approach that addresses the complex drivers of the crisis. By doing so, we can work towards a more just and equitable future for Syrians – one that prioritizes human rights, accountability, and economic development over military power and profits.
Outlook
In the short term (next 6 months), it is likely that the EU’s sanctions will have limited immediate impact on the Syrian regime. The regime has demonstrated an ability to adapt and evolve in response to external pressure. However, the cumulative effect of the sanctions package – combined with other international efforts to isolate the regime – may begin to take its toll.
In the long term (5–10 years), the EU’s actions mark a significant shift in its approach to the crisis. By prioritizing human rights, accountability, and economic development, the EU is positioning itself for a more sustainable and peaceful resolution to the conflict. This will require continued international pressure and cooperation, as well as a commitment to addressing the root causes of the crisis.
The Syrian conflict serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of inaction and the importance of collective action in promoting global stability. As we move forward, it is essential that policymakers prioritize a comprehensive approach that addresses the complex drivers of the crisis – one that prioritizes human rights, accountability, and economic development over military power and profits.