During a recent UN meeting, advocacy for the forcibly disappeared in Syria was prominent, led by Yasmen Almashan. She called for a national transitional justice policy for victims. Emphasis was placed on the importance of victim participation and addressing past atrocities, with examples from various countries showcasing efforts in transitional justice and reparations. Key speakers noted the threats to international law and urged collective action against discrimination and genocide.
On Wednesday, the search for justice for the forcibly disappeared in Syria was highlighted at the UN. Yasmen Almashan, a representative of the families affected, spoke of her enduring anguish after losing five of her six brothers during the civil war. Almashan, a founding member of the Caesar Families Association, urged for a national transitional justice policy to address the plight of over 130,000 missing persons in Syria.
Almashan emphasized that the involvement of victims is crucial for the success of transitional justice programs, as they can foster dialogue among society and contribute to a peaceful and just environment in Syria. She recalled the past refusal of the Assad regime to allow the display of graphic evidence of torture from the Caesar Files, which are vital to understanding the abuses suffered by detainees.
Her activism has partially led to the UN General Assembly’s adoption of Resolution 77/301, establishing the Independent Institution for the Missing in Syria, allowing victims to engage in its activities. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk advocated for transitional justice initiatives, urging collective attention to historic injustices to safeguard future generations. He cited successful victim-driven coalitions in Guatemala that have led to convictions for crimes against humanity.
A comprehensive approach to transitional justice should be victim-centered, inclusive, and innovative, according to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. Türk highlighted a remarkable response in Colombia, addressing the legacy of a lengthy civil war, showcasing psychosocial support for victims and restoring indigenous territories while also referencing actions in Kenya and Chad that aided survivors seeking reparations.
Sofija Todorovic, the Program Director of the Serbian NGO Youth Initiative for Human Rights, stressed the importance of including youth in discussions about building a more equitable society. She asserted the need to provide young people with tools to shape their future.
Furthermore, UN human rights deputy chief Nada Al-Nashif cautioned Member States that principles of international law protecting humanity from atrocities face serious challenges. She noted rising divisions and violent extremism that threaten global order, indicating early signs of genocide through discrimination and incitement.
Al-Nashif highlighted the unprecedented strain on global norms enshrined in the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The consequences of arms sales to parties violating international laws are of particular concern, she explained. To combat these dangers, she called for a collective commitment to a world where genocide and atrocity crimes are not only inconceivable but that those responsible are held accountable.
The UN Council meeting underscored the urgent need for justice for the thousands of disappeared individuals in Syria and emphasized the importance of victim engagement in transitional justice initiatives. Speakers called for inclusive approaches and prevention of future atrocities while highlighting efforts in various countries to rectify historical injustices. The session serves as a reminder of the ongoing battles against tyranny and the necessity of a united front to uphold human rights.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
