UN Investigative Team Calls for Preservation of Evidence in Syria Amid Human Rights Violations
A delegation from the UN’s Independent International Commission of Inquiry (CoI) on Syria recently conducted its first visit to the country, including inspections of former prisons and detention centers such as the infamous Sednaya prison and Military Intelligence Branch 235. The visit marks a milestone, as previous requests for access had been denied by the former regime.
Evidence at Risk
The team expressed deep concern that significant evidence and documentation, crucial for tracing missing victims and uncovering human rights violations, had been damaged, removed, or destroyed. They emphasized the need to safeguard mass grave sites and preserve all related documentation, warning that premature interventions by individuals or organizations could jeopardize long-term forensic investigations.
“Protecting mass grave sites and preserving evidence is of utmost importance,” the Commission stated, advocating for careful, coordinated efforts to maintain the integrity of potential investigations.
Key Recommendations
The Commission suggested the creation of a specialized unit dedicated to securing mass grave sites and relevant documents until forensic experts can conduct thorough examinations. It also urged authorities to prevent meddling in these sensitive areas and return any evidence that may have been previously removed. Multiple national and international human rights organizations have already offered resources and expertise to assist in this effort and support the families of Syria’s disappeared.
“The Commission renews its solidarity with the Syrian people during this critical period in their history. We are ready to support in any way possible,” the body declared.
Laying the Groundwork for Justice
The Independent International Commission of Inquiry was established by the UN Human Rights Council in 2011 to investigate allegations of human rights violations in Syria since the outbreak of the civil war in March of the same year. The organization has consistently reported on atrocities and advocated for accountability and transparency as cornerstones for Syria’s recovery.
Building a Democratic Future
Separately, a group of over 30 independent human rights experts, including UN Special Rapporteurs, stressed the necessity for international backing to aid Syria’s transition into a democratic and human-rights-focused state. These experts underlined that achieving justice, reconciliation, and respect for sovereignty are crucial for the country’s recovery after the fall of the Assad regime.
Special attention was drawn to the rights of marginalized groups, including women, children, minorities, and displaced populations. The experts reiterated the importance of ensuring a political process that is Syrian-led and Syrian-owned.
Establishing a Credible Justice System
The human rights experts emphasized the need for a judicial system that holds all perpetrators accountable for their crimes and focuses on reparations and reconciliation rather than revenge.
“Justice for all crimes must be pursued through a credible judicial system that aligns with international human rights standards,” the experts stated. They highlighted the crucial role of civil society and human rights defenders in ensuring a credible and inclusive transitional process.
A Call for International Cooperation
The experts called on the international community to support Syria’s reconstruction while safeguarding the process from foreign interference and aggression. They warned that continued military interventions, including territorial incursions and airstrikes, have prolonged Syria’s suffering and hindered its recovery.
In particular, they condemned recent military actions by Israel, including illegal occupation of Syrian territories in the Golan Heights and unprovoked attacks in northeastern and central Syria. “All foreign occupying forces must exit Syria, and territorial incursions and attacks must cease immediately,” they demanded.
Independent Expertise
The group of experts includes Special Rapporteurs and working groups appointed by the Geneva-based UN Human Rights Council. While they operate under UN mandates, they are independent and serve in their personal capacities without receiving salaries.
As Syria continues to navigate its path toward recovery and justice, these experts and organizations stress the urgency of preserving evidence, ensuring accountability, and advocating for an inclusive and democratic future for all Syrians.
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