On the 14th anniversary of the Syrian conflict, the UN Commission highlights the urgent need for renewed commitment to peace, justice, and human rights, amidst escalating violence. Concerns over civilian casualties and extrajudicial killings were noted, alongside the establishment of an independent inquiry into recent events. The Commission calls for accountability, preservation of evidence, and humanitarian assistance as pivotal elements to move forward.
On the 14th anniversary of the Syrian conflict, the UN Syria Commission emphasizes the urgent need for renewed commitment towards peace, justice, and human rights amidst continuing violence. Paulo Sérgio Pinheiro, the Commission’s Chair, remarked that the recent violence serves as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead and highlighted the necessity of accountability regardless of the perpetrator.
The Commission expressed deep concern over the recent violence in coastal regions, resulting in civilian casualties including men, women, and children. Reports indicate extrajudicial killings amid clashes involving armed groups loyal to the former government and security forces. Additionally, many security personnel have also been reported as killed or executed after capture.
Positive developments noted by the Commission include the establishment of an independent inquiry into the recent events, which must function free from interference. This inquiry is essential to deliver a clear account of events and alleged wrongful acts committed by all involved parties in the conflict.
Ongoing investigations by the Commission include the verification of digital information, while there is a caution against widespread disinformation that may exacerbate the situation further. The need for accurate information has never been more significant, particularly as incendiary rhetoric implies division and hostility.
The recent violence threatens to disrupt Syria’s precarious path toward stability and prosperity. Commissioner Hanny Megally affirmed the commitment of caretaker authorities to uphold human rights for all Syrians and to ensure equality in rights across the population.
The UN Syria Commission of Inquiry was established in 2011 and has been investigating alleged human rights violations throughout the conflict. While the recent violence has dimmed hopes of peace, some agreements have emerged to halt fighting and promote normalization with non-state armed groups.
A dire humanitarian and economic landscape persists in Syria, exacerbated by diminishing humanitarian funding. The Commission continues to advocate for the removal of sectoral sanctions and barriers that impede recovery and rebuilding efforts. Many Syrians had cautiously celebrated this anniversary, hoping the long-standing conflict was nearing resolution.
Accountability for crimes throughout the conflict remains a pressing issue. The Commission underscores the importance of preserving evidence, including documentation and records, to support future truth and accountability initiatives led by new authorities with the aid of civil society.
As the anniversary arrives, there are calls to honor victims of the conflict, ensuring their rights to truth and reparations are recognized. With tens of thousands still unaccounted for, collaborative efforts involving the caretaker authorities and community organizations will be essential in addressing their plight. The Commission stands ready to assist in these endeavors, providing data gathered since the inception of the conflict.
The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic was formed through a Human Rights Council resolution in 2011, tasked with investigating human rights violations and holding perpetrators accountable. Its mandate has been extended on several occasions, most recently until March 2025.
The 14th anniversary of the Syrian conflict underscores the significance of a renewed commitment to peace and justice as violence continues. The UN Syria Commission emphasizes the need for accountability and actions to protect human rights. As humanitarian conditions worsen, the international community’s solidarity becomes imperative to support Syria’s path toward stability and a future rich in dignity and justice for all its citizens.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
