ESCWA: unilateral sanctions on Syria have disrupted the provision of humanitarian services to its people

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia “ESCWA” confirmed that the unilateral sanctions imposed on Syria have disrupted the provision of basic social services and humanitarian assistance to its people.

In a report on the effects of unilateral coercive measures against Syria on various aspects of the population’s lives published by the United Nations News Centre, the Committee stated that such unilateral measures imposed on Syria disrupt the provision of basic services, access to medical supplies, water, the import of equipment, educational materials and other services, noting that various aspects of life are affected by these sanctions.

In its report, ESCWA called for “Making efforts to reduce excessive compliance and the effects associated with these measures”, stressing the importance of continuous dialogue with relevant stakeholders, including humanitarian organizations, to address the repercussions of sanctions and facilitate recovery-related transactions and activities in order to build resilience and effective stabilization efforts, thereby promoting sustainable livelihoods.

The committee recommended ” the establishment of monitoring mechanisms to control the effects of sanctions and provide clear controls and information on permitted trade and procedures for smooth humanitarian operations, as well as ensuring access to legal assistance or services to deal with multiple sanctions regimes”.

Amal Farhat