Geneva, SANA-The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has welcomed the recent decisions by the European Union and the United States to lift a significant portion of sanctions imposed on Syria. The moves, along with similar decisions taken by the United Kingdom in the past few weeks, opens new possibilities for recovery, return, and regional peacebuilding after more than a decade of conflict that triggered a humanitarian crisis, mass displacement, economic collapse.
“The lifting of sanctions sends a powerful message of hope to millions of displaced Syrians, both within the country and across the region,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope. “But hope must be matched with concrete support. Syrians need not just the ability to return, but the means to rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.”
The sanctions relief is estimated to affect over USD 15 billion in restricted assets and trade measures, and could unlock much-needed investments in livelihoods, infrastructure, health, and housing in areas that have suffered from economic stagnation, isolation, and prolonged displacement.
An estimated 6.7 million Syrians remain internally displaced, and another 5.2 million live as refugees in neighboring countries. IOM emphasizes that sustainable and voluntary return will only be possible when essential conditions—such as access to services, housing, legal documentation, and livelihoods—are in place.
IOM is ready to work with the Government of Syria, the United Nations, civil society, the donor community, and regional partners to ensure that these developments translate into tangible improvements on the ground.
Reem Safi/ Mazen Eyon
