Damascus is initiating a diplomatic effort to advocate for the removal of restrictions.
The United Nations reports that seven out of 10 Syrians are in need of humanitarian assistance after 13 years of war.
A staggering $500 billion is estimated to be required for the reconstruction of their country.
Over the past two weeks, Syria’s new government has been engaging in diplomacy to convince Western powers to lift sanctions that were imposed during Bashar al-Assad’s rule.
However, these governments are demanding progress towards a more inclusive and democratic governance system in Syria.
There are concerns that the initial optimism following al-Assad’s downfall may turn into frustration and violence if there are delays in the process.
Will the West be willing to lift sanctions quickly?
And can Syria’s new leadership implement the necessary changes to gain the trust of global powers?
Presenter: Neave Barker
Guests:
Ammar Kahf – executive director of the Omran Center for Strategic Studies
Hind Kabawat – director of interfaith peacebuilding at the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University
Fadi Dayoub – executive director of Local Development and Small Projects Support, a Syrian NGO
