Montesquieu Instituut: van wetenschap naar samenleving

Syria: Declaration by the High Representative Federica Mogherini on behalf of the EU


The EU firmly calls on all sides to fully respect International Humanitarian Law. We strongly condemn the indiscriminate attacks on civilians, hospitals and schools, including the use of barrel bombs. The EU reaffirms its firm determination to hold accountable those who violate IHL.

The continued presence and activities of UN-listed terrorist groups in the area contribute to the suffering of civilians, and remain of grave concern. Yet fighting terrorist groups cannot justify violations of IHL.

The EU calls on all sides to restore an immediate cease fire and demands that all sides abide by it, ensuring the protection of and unhindered humanitarian assistance to the civilian population, and giving space for the start of a genuine Syrian political process.

The EU fully supports UN-led efforts towards a political settlement in line with UNSCR 2254, but there can be no hope of progress while violence continues. The EU reiterates that there can be no military solution to the conflict in Syria. Only a credible, negotiated political solution can end the Syria crisis.