HMT - UK Her Majesty's Treasury

07/12/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/12/2021 23:14

Financial sanctions, Syria

The Syria (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 ensure sanctions relating to Syria are implemented effectively after the UK leaves the EU.

Context

This sanctions regime is aimed at encouraging the government of Syria to:

  • refrain from actions, policies or activities which repress the civilian population in Syria
  • participate in negotiations in good faith to reach a negotiated political settlement to bring about a peaceful solution to the conflict in Syria.

The Syria regime imposes asset freezes on those identified as being responsible for the violent repression of the civilian population in Syria, or supporting or benefitting from the Syrian regime.

There are several financial restrictions including in relation to the:

  • sale or purchase of certain bonds issued or guaranteed by the Syrian regime
  • establishment of correspondent banking relationships with certain persons
  • provision of insurance and re-insurance services to certain persons.

Exceptions and licences

Specific exceptions apply to certain activities in particular circumstances, such as:

  • under licence from HM Treasury to allow humanitarian assistance activities to be carried out in Syria for the benefit of the civilian population.

More details on exceptions which may apply can be found in Part 7 of the Syria (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.

For guidance for charities and NGO, please see our Charity sector guidance

UK regulations

EU regulations (applicable prior to 11:00pm, 31 December 2020)

Council Regulation (EU) No 36/2012

Find out more about UK sanctions on Syria