Developments in Syria: international human rights, political and humanitarian support
In a press conference held in Geneva – which was scheduled in advance – Volker Türk stressed the need to collect all evidence and carefully preserve it for future use, adding that “Reform of the security services will be key. The transition must also ensure that the tragedy of missing persons is addressed.”.
Turk said: “We saw a regime forced from power after decades of brutal repression, and after nearly 14 years of ongoing conflict.”. He pointed out that hundreds of thousands of lives were lost during this period, more than 100,000 people disappeared, and about 14 million people were forced to flee their homes, often under extremely brutal conditions.
He added: “I have met many of them over the years, and witnessed their desperation and shock as they bore witness to the most serious human rights violations committed against them, including torture and the use of chemical weapons.”.
He pointed out that yesterday, Syrians took to the streets with great hope and anxiety about the future; “Hope that this is an opportunity for the country to build a future based on human rights, freedom and justice. And anxiety because so much is uncertain.”.
Protection of minorities
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights said there were reports that hostilities were continuing in some parts of Syria, including in the northeast. Turk said: “It is truly important, indeed essential, for all parties to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law.”.
He stressed that all measures should be taken to ensure the protection of all minorities, and to avoid reprisals and reprisals. He added that it is necessary for the human rights of all Syrians to be at the heart of this process, through meaningful and comprehensive participation, including women and youth in particular.
He said that Syria’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity must be restored, explaining that his office is ready to support the transition process.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said yesterday “Today, the Syrian people can seize this historic opportunity to build a stable and peaceful future, after 14 years of brutal war and the fall of the dictatorial regime.”
This came after the armed opposition entered the Syrian capital, Damascus, yesterday, while former President Bashar al-Assad left the country, according to reports.
More later on developments related to Syria.
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