UN experts urge democratic transition, respect for human rights in Syria

GENEVA

Independent UN human rights experts on Friday urged the international community to support Syria’s democratic transition following the fall of the Assad regime, emphasizing the need for sovereignty, justice and human rights.

“This represents a watershed moment in the region’s history, offering an opportunity for lasting peace, justice and reconciliation, democratic governance and the restoration of Syria’s sovereignty,” they said in a statement, stressing the importance of respecting Syria’s territorial integrity and ending violations of international law.

The group urged the release of arbitrarily detained individuals, justice for victims of atrocities and safeguarding evidence of war crimes. They emphasized that accountability must be pursued through a credible judicial system that prioritizes reconciliation over revenge.

The experts highlighted the critical role of civil society and human rights defenders in ensuring a transparent, inclusive political process aligned with UN Security Council Resolution 2254, which encourages a cease-fire and political settlement. They also called for the formation of a representative government and the active participation of women in peacebuilding efforts.

Foreign interventions, including recent attacks and territorial incursions by Israel, were condemned as obstacles to Syria’s rehabilitation in the statement. "The continuing military interventions, like the recent unprovoked, illegal attacks by Israel, its occupation of more Syrian territory in the Golan Heights and other air-attacks and incursions into north-east and central Syria, put grave obstacles to the rehabilitation process and destabilize the region," they said.

“While international support and cooperation for Syria’s rebuilding is essential, the rehabilitation process must remain free of foreign interference or aggression,” the experts said. “The political transition must be Syrian-led and Syrian-owned. It must be inclusive, non-sectarian, and considerate of the interests of all components of Syrian society.”

The experts also called for the immediate lifting of sanctions and prioritization of humanitarian needs, expressing solidarity with the Syrian people in their journey toward democracy and inclusive development.