Jurist New Syria government urged to implement human rights reforms

[Dadparvar]

Amnesty International urged the new government of Syria to address the country’s history of human rights abuses through “justice, truth, and reparation” in a statement released on Friday. The rights group also called for the implementation of reforms to prevent future human rights violations and ensure compliance with international law.

Amnesty International’s call to action followed a public statement in which the group outlined several recommendations for reforms that were sent to the Syrian government on April 14. The reforms included reparations for survivors of human rights violations (as well as for victims’ families), accountability for perpetrators through criminal proceedings, cooperation with efforts to locate the missing and disappeared, and an overhaul of the security sector and criminal justice system. Amnesty International has not yet received a response.

The recommendations were informed by Amnesty International’s documentation of numerous human rights violations that took place from 2011 to 2024 under the government of then-President Bashar al-Assad. In addition to Assad’s government, violations were committed by “government allies, including Russia, … armed groups opposing the government and their ally Turkiye, and the Kurdish-led de facto authorities and their allies.” The rights group emphasized that the new government has an opportunity “to ensure a break with the past.” Amnesty International Deputy Director for the Middle East and North Africa Kristine Beckerle said:

It is crucial for the authorities to rebuild trust between the people in Syria and the state. Delaying justice will only heighten the risk of further bloodshed such as the recent mass killing of Alawite civilians in the coastal areas of Syria … It is essential that the authorities, without any delay, ensure that all those suspected of criminal responsibility for crimes against humanity, war crimes, torture and enforced disappearance are brought to justice in fair trials before ordinary civilian courts, in accordance with international law.

Following the mass killing of Alawites in early March, Amnesty International found that “government affiliated militias deliberately targeted civilians from the Alawite minority.” In response, the new Syrian government issued a press release stating that the attack was “launched by remnants of the former regime.” The government cited its “efforts and willingness to cooperate with human rights organizations” and has, according to Amnesty International, created a “dedicated fact-finding committee.” The new government has also previously welcomed international initiatives to hold the Assad regime accountable. Amnesty International stated that how the government proceeds “will serve as an important signal and a key precedent.”

In December 2024, Syrian rebels breached the capital city of Damascus and caused Bashar al-Assad to flee the country, bringing an end to his family’s 53-year rule over the country. The Assad regime faced numerous accusations of human rights violations, including enforced disappearances and torture. Rights organizations have since called for inclusive governance, the upholding of the rule of law, and humanitarian assistance in Syria. Last month, a UN official warned of grave consequences for the country’s future without political inclusion and economic support.

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