Damascus/Geneva: Syria has formally welcomed a United Nations resolution aimed at investigating human rights violations and improving the country’s record following the 13-year civil war under the former regime of Bashar al-Assad. The resolution was adopted without opposition at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Friday, marking a significant moment in Syria’s transition.
The resolution urges Syria’s new transitional government to cooperate with international efforts to investigate crimes committed during the devastating conflict that began in 2011. The move reflects what observers describe as a notable shift among the 47 member states of the council, who appear increasingly supportive of the country’s new leadership and reform agenda.
“Such international support serves as a strong incentive to continue the path of reform,” Syria’s ambassador to the UN in Geneva, Haydar Ali Ahmad, told the council.
The transitional government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, came to power after rebel forces seized the capital Damascus in December. Former President Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia amid the collapse of his regime, which was accused of widespread atrocities, including the disappearance of over 100,000 people and the use of chemical weapons and torture.
In response to international calls for accountability and transparency, Syria’s new administration welcomed the UN’s decision.
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“We are proud of Syria’s positive and constructive participation in drafting the resolution for the first time,” Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani said in a statement posted on X.
During Friday’s session, council members commended Syria’s engagement with the resolution and called on the transitional government to implement its commitments. Among these is cooperation with the Commission of Inquiry, which has been tasked with investigating serious human rights violations committed since the outbreak of war.
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British Ambassador to the UN, Simon Manley, highlighted the urgency of accountability, referencing the recent killing of hundreds of Alawite civilians—members of the same sect as the ousted president. He described the incident as a “chilling reminder of the deep wounds” left by the war, and emphasized the ongoing need for justice and healing.
