Andrews calls for “responsible approach” to Syria

Fianna Fáil MEP Barry Andrews is urging the EU to take decisive action to prevent Syria from following the destabilising paths of other fragile countries such as Sudan and Libya.

Andrews, Chair of the Committee on Development in the European Parliament, hhas worked with humanitarian stakeholders on the ground in Syria and has visited the country, and has been campaigning for justice in Syria for the past decade.

He warns that without a concerted effort to avoid the same mistakes made in the past, Syria could face further instability and suffering.

Andrews said “we must not allow Syria to become another Sudan or Libya. The EU and other countries turned a blind eye to the complexities of these conflicts, failed to step up during the post-conflict reconstruction phase and we can now see the consequences. Syria is at a critical juncture, and the decisions we make today will determine whether it sinks further into chaos or begins a process of rebuilding.”

Andrews has consistently called for greater accountability, stronger humanitarian support, and a concerted international effort to address the complex political dynamics within Syria.

“The question of impunity in Syria is one that has long gone unaddressed. The failure to hold perpetrators accountable for war crimes has only entrenched the suffering of the Syrian people. If we are serious about peace and stability in the region, justice must be part of the conversation,” said Andrews.

Andrews also raised concerns about growing numbers of Syrians in Lebanon, Jordan, and Turkey returning home, often in the face of ongoing threats and uncertainty. “Although this is a sign of improvement of the situation on the ground, the reality is more complex. In many cases, returning Syrians face new challenges, including unresolved property disputes and land claims, which threaten to escalate tensions and violence. We need a framework that protects the rights of these returnees and ensures that their return is not just a political tool used for propaganda.”

Another critical point Andrews addresses is the role of the numerous armed factions and proxy forces in the ongoing conflict, which may complicate efforts for peace and stability. The mismanagement of these proxy groups, he warns, is exacerbating the situation and perpetuating cycles of violence.

“The use of proxies by regional and global powers is a key part of the problem. We need to ensure that these groups can feel secure enough to lay down their weapons and start a reconciliation process.” he said.

“To do this, we need to ensure that security and lawfulness is maintained throughout the country. We cannot let the humanitarian crisis in Syria deteriorate further. The EU must step up its commitment to providing humanitarian assistance and restarting development aid. Abandoning Syria now, given this opportunity that has been presented, would be yet another tragic mistake in the Syrian story.” Andrews added.

As Syria’s future now hangs in the balance, and as the world looks on, Andrews has urged the international community to learn from past mistakes and approach the situation with a commitment to long-term stability and justice.

Andrews concluded: “We have an opportunity to change the course of Syria’s future, but it requires the international community to act responsibly, to uphold justice, and to ensure that the people of Syria are not left to suffer indefinitely. A swift review of the sanctions regime must be carried out to ensure that it targets the perpetrators of the regime’s atrocities without worsening the lives of ordinary Syrians.

“This is not just about humanitarian aid; it is about ensuring that Syria does not descend into a bloodbath or become a battleground for external powers. The simple choice is, invest in peace now or pay heavily later.”