Marking the anniversary of the old regime’s collapse, improvements are being observed, according to Mohammad Al Nsour, Chief of the Middle East and North Africa Section at OHCHR, who spoke to UN News.
“Each visit to Damascus reveals change,” he noted.
OHCHR, previously unable to operate in Syria, now has a permanent team in Damascus, signifying a critical shift from remote monitoring in Beirut.
“The former regime obstructed our access,” he said from Geneva. “We made numerous attempts.” Now, being on site is a significant advantage, he added.
Syria faces urgent issues: rebuilding, resolving grievances, and securing justice for past and ongoing violations. Alarming insecurity concerns remain, including recent mass killings in coastal areas by government forces.
Yet, the progress is deemed constructive and positive, with governmental willingness for improvement, highlighted by ongoing engagement with OHCHR. The government is receiving UN technical aid for legislative reform, law enforcement human rights strengthening, and public administration enhancement—steps reflecting a commitment to a rights-focused future.
The office in Syria serves as an advisor to authorities, monitoring and advocating to prevent violations. The aim is not to shame or blame but to prevent infractions.
Syria prepares for its inaugural Human Rights Day on December 10, shortly after the previous regime’s fall anniversary. Co-organized by OHCHR and the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event, themed “A human rights approach to reconstruction,” signifies a new chapter with the Syrian government, focusing on advancing the human rights agenda in the new Syria.
Accountability remains vital for Syrians. After coastal region violence last March, a National Investigative Committee was formed with OHCHR’s technical guidance, leading to trials of some perpetrators. The government’s acceptance of the UN Commission of Inquiry’s renewed mandate allows continued independent investigations into violations before and after the Assad regime.
Transitional justice is prioritized for 2026, needing not only accountability but also truth-telling, reparations, and reconciliation.
OHCHR supports women-led civil society organizations and promotes increased women’s political representation, a move the authorities are growing receptive to. Empowering these organizations involves advocacy training and linking them with international human rights mechanisms.
Al Nsour emphasized Syrians as the main hope source, highlighting the resilience of the Syrian people. The educated, young generation engages positively with the new Syria. Youth-led grassroots initiatives, from park cleaning to supporting local services, rebuild community spirit post-conflict.
Observing other post-conflict regions, they strive for progress. Despite financial challenges, donors signal increased funding interest for Syria.
Major donors, both regional and international, aim to promote human rights in the new Syria. Syrians remain determined to rebuild their nation on human rights foundations.
As Human Rights Day approaches, Syria’s key message emerges: progress, however fragile, is becoming visible, bringing hope along.
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