The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaia Kallas, was called to account, PASOK MEP and member of the European Socialists group Nikolas Farantouris, regarding the ongoing massacres and persecution of religious and ethnic communities in Syria.
During the plenary debate on developments in the Middle East, the Greek MEP emphasized that “it is the European Union’s obligation to protect every religious and ethnic community in the Middle East, but unfortunately in Syria the massacres and persecution continue against ethnic and religious communities, such as Christians, Alawites, and Kurds”.
“What accountability does the regime have toward the European Union within the framework of existing bilateral cooperation? Do you intend to take action from this point forward to ensure that the Syrian regime complies and finally stops persecuting ethnic and religious communities that include thousands of our fellow citizens in the region?” Nikolas Farantouris emphasized to the High Representative.
Kaja Kallas acknowledged that “we cannot say that everything is stable and peaceful” and that “various events are taking place” (massacres), referring to “an opportunity” for the new Syrian authorities on the path toward “the integration of all communities, ” prompting a reaction from the Greek MEP, who called for specific measures and a timeline.
In statements made in Strasbourg, Nikolas Farantouris noted:
“The European Union cannot remain silent in the face of the persecution of Christians, Alawites, and Kurds, as well as of every human life in Syria and throughout the Middle East. Vague statements and generalities are not enough.
The protection of religious and ethnic minorities is not optional—it is a fundamental obligation of the EU. We will persist until we see concrete, binding actions, not just statements. The Syrian regime’s accountability to Europe must be clear and immediate.”
The massacres and persecutions in Syria
PASOK MEP Nikolas Farantouris has sharply criticized the EU’s inaction in defending persecuted communities. On March 17–19, 2025, he traveled to Syria amid the mass massacres of Alawites and Christians.
Following the outcry, the Syrian regime of Al-Jolani, which took over the country’s governance after Assad’s fall, committed to inclusive governance with respect for all ethnic and religious communities, yet failed to honor its commitments, while massacres and persecutions continued, culminating in the bombing a year ago of the Church of St. Elias in Damascus and the recent persecutions in the Valley of the Christians in western Syria near the ancient city of Seleucia.