H.E. Mgr. Mariano Crociata, President of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE), issued a statement on Wednesday, 19 February 2025, expressing deep concern for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Syria, which persists more than a decade after the outbreak of conflict. Mgr. Crociata: “Christians communities are an integral and essential part of the history and culture of the region for centuries”. Download the Statement
BRUSSELS, Belgium — H.E. Mgr. Mariano Crociata, President of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE), issued a poignant statement on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, emphasizing the urgent need for long-term peacebuilding efforts in Syria amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis that has persisted for over a decade.
Mgr. Crociata expressed deep concern for the plight of the Syrian people, acknowledging the immense suffering they have endured since the outbreak of conflict. He highlighted the integral role of Christian communities in Syria, stating, “Christians are an essential part of the history and culture of the region for centuries.” He warned that the loss of these communities would represent a tragic loss not only for Syria but for the entire region and the world.
The statement draws special attention to the struggles faced by Christian communities in Syria, who are now fighting to maintain their historical continuity in their homeland. Mgr. Crociata urged the European Union and the international community to recognize the vulnerability of religious minorities and to take concrete actions to ensure their protection.
In his call to action, Mgr. Crociata outlined several long-term strategies that the EU and international community should adopt:
- Provide Humanitarian Support: Ensure sustained funding through trusted partners for essential needs such as food, shelter, healthcare, and education.
- Support Economic Recovery: Gradually ease EU sanctions and create a framework that allows for private sector engagement, with proper safeguards in place.
- Foster Equal Citizenship: Include minority communities in the constitutional process and reconstruction efforts to ensure their voices are heard.
- Promote Dialogue, Reconciliation, and Healing: Implement a legal framework for transitional justice, avoid revenge, and foster dialogue to heal societal divisions.
Mgr. Crociata reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to supporting Syrian refugees and displaced persons, urging the EU and its Member States to create conditions that allow for the safe and voluntary return of refugees and their families to their homes.
This statement follows a series of policy initiatives by COMECE at the EU level, underscoring the crucial role of faith-based actors in advocating for a peaceful transition in Syria and promoting long-term resilience in the face of adversity.
As the humanitarian crisis in Syria continues, Mgr. Crociata’s call for action serves as a reminder of the importance of solidarity and support for all communities affected by conflict, particularly those that have historically contributed to the rich tapestry of the region’s culture and heritage.
COMECE reaffirms the Church’s commitment to supporting Syrian refugees and displaced persons and calls on the EU and its Member States to “also work to create conditions that allow the safe and voluntary return of refugees and their families to their homes.”
This statement follows a series of policy initiatives by COMECE at the EU level, highlighting the crucial role of faith-based actors in the country, advocating for a peaceful transition and promoting long-term resilience.