European bishops emphasize that Christians are essential in Syria

The president of the Commission of the Episcopal Conferences of the European Union (ECUCE), Mons. Mariano Crociata, issued a communication in which he affirms that the Christian communities “are an integral and essential part of the history and culture” of Syria.

Mons. Crociata asks the European Union to recognize the vulnerability of religious minorities in the country, including Christians, and that concrete measures are taken to protect them.

In the statement, the prelate expresses its deep concern for the humanitarian crisis in Syria, which persists more than a decade after the outbreak of the conflict. Mons. Crociata attracts attention to the “immense suffering of the Syrian people”, although it expresses their hope of a future marked by peace, dignity and justice.

Specifically, it draws attention to the difficult situation of Christian communities, “integral and essential part of the history and culture of the region for centuries”, which currently “struggles to maintain its historical continuity in their homeland.” In this sense, he warns that “losing” these communities would mean a “tragic loss not only for Syria, but for the stability of the region and the world.”

In the name of the bishops of the European Union, Mons. Crociata also urges to design strategies that provide humanitarian support and economic recovery, through “gradual relief of EU sanctions and the creation of a framework that allows the participation of the participation of the Private sector with adequate safeguards ”.

It also urges “equal citizenship”, including minority communities in the constitutional process and reconstruction efforts, as well as promoting dialogue, “reconciliation and healing”, avoiding revenge and implementing “a legal framework for transitional justice ”. In addition, he asks to foster dialogue to “heal social divisions.”

In this sense, it eats reaffirms the commitment of the Catholic Church in the support of refugees and displaced Syrians, highlighting the need to “work to create conditions that allow the safe and voluntary return of refugees and their families to their homes”.

Bishops also highlight “the crucial role of faith -based actors in the country, advocating a peaceful transition and promoting long -term resilience.”