Europe’s strategy in Syria aims to avoid another Afghanistan

University courses Politics
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This interesting article discusses Europe’s strategic shift in engaging with the new Syrian regime, comparing it to the approach taken towards the Taliban in Afghanistan. Key points include:

  • Pragmatism vs. Isolation: Europe is engaging with the new Syrian leadership (a coalition of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the Syrian National Army (SNA)) to avoid the perceived failures of isolating the Taliban.
  • Image Cultivation: The Syrian leadership is presenting a moderate image, emphasizing inclusivity and women’s rights, which resonates with European values.
  • Geopolitical Interests: Europe sees an opportunity to weaken Russian and Iranian influence in the region by engaging with the new Syrian authorities.
  • Kurdish Allies: Europe is committed to supporting Kurdish autonomy, recognizing their role in fighting ISIS and their democratic credentials.
  • Refugee Concerns: Europe hopes that engagement will lead to a stable Syria, encouraging the return of Syrian refugees.
  • Countering Islamism: Europe aims to prevent the spread of radical Islamism by supporting moderate reforms in Syria.
  • Balancing Values and Realpolitik: Europe’s strategy involves balancing its commitment to human rights with its geopolitical interests.
  • Avoiding Past Mistakes: Europe is attempting to learn from the Afghanistan experience, where isolation contributed to instability.
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Really interesting read, especially given the escalating situation. I think since Afghanistan there has been a real desire to keep western soldiers out of conflict zones far away from home, it will be interesting to see how the response differs with the conflict in Ukraine and Israel/Gaza.

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