A 15-Million-Euro Pledge
The Netherlands will contribute 15 million euros (EUR) before the end of 2026 to a newly established World Bank fund for recovery and reconstruction in Syria, under a pledge disclosed on 14 October 2026. The money is earmarked for rehabilitating infrastructure and essential services and for reviving economic activity, with agriculture named as a priority.
The commitment was announced at a meeting held on the sidelines of the World Bank's annual gatherings, attended by Syria's finance minister and representatives of European and Gulf states.
Norway Matches the Offer
Norway pledged a contribution of the same size to the fund. The twin pledges are meant to anchor early financing for the World Bank-led vehicle as it begins operating.
The fund is designed to pool donor money and channel it toward rebuilding services and restarting economic activity across the country.
Cooperation Beyond the Fund
Alongside the pledge, officials discussed broader development cooperation, including technical and agricultural support that the Dutch side said it would provide in the coming months at Syria's request. Agriculture was again singled out as an early focus for assistance.
The talks follow earlier contacts this year on overhauling public financial management, part of a wider effort to rebuild the machinery of the Syrian state.
Part of a Larger Package
The 15 million euros is drawn from 25 million euros in additional funds that the Dutch government set aside during 2026 for stability and reconstruction in Syria. The broader 25-million-euro allocation was first announced in September 2026.
Officials framed the support as a way to improve living conditions, open economic opportunities, and underpin the voluntary and safe return of refugees.
A Question of Return
In a parliamentary session, the Dutch minister responsible for development cooperation said that 58 percent of Syrians living in the Netherlands would consider returning if security and living conditions improve. The financing is presented in part as a means to make such returns viable.