Greek MEP Yannis Maniatis (S&D) has called on the EU to take urgent action to protect Orthodox Christians and other minorities in Syria, following a surge in attacks on the predominantly Orthodox city of Suqaylabiyah. In a written parliamentary question submitted on 7 April 2026, Maniatis warns that the interim government is failing to uphold Syria's multicultural character and may be complicit in the violence, directly impacting religious minorities and EU foreign policy credibility.
The question, addressed to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, demands concrete measures: protection of Syria's multicultural fabric, possible new sanctions if the interim government continues to allow attacks, and strict conditionality linking EU financial support to the protection of all religious and ethnic minorities. Maniatis notes that the EU is one of Syria's principal donors, giving leverage to demand accountability.
Maniatis's question reflects growing concern among some MEPs that the EU's engagement with Syria's interim authorities has not translated into tangible security guarantees for minorities. The MEP specifically highlights the plight of Orthodox Christians as they prepare to celebrate Easter, framing the issue as a test of the EU's commitment to human rights and religious freedom in its neighbourhood.
The Commission/EEAS is expected to reply within approximately six weeks. The answer will signal whether the EU is willing to tighten conditions on aid or impose new sanctions, or whether it will maintain a more cautious approach prioritising stability over minority protection.
← Atlas › News › Foreign affairs