UN Highlights Priorities for Syria’s Transitional Phase Amid Humanitarian and Security Challenges
In a recent briefing to the UN Security Council, UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, emphasized the fragile yet pivotal nature of Syria’s transitional period, describing it as a time of “great opportunities and real dangers.” He called for careful decisions to ensure progress toward long-term stability.
The humanitarian crisis in Syria remains dire, with nearly 15 million people in need of health services, 13 million facing acute food insecurity, and over 620,000 displaced during harsh winter conditions. UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher underscored the urgency, stating, “We must seize the opportunity of this moment,” while outlining immediate priorities for Syria’s recovery.
—
Mounting Humanitarian Needs
Fletcher identified three key priorities for humanitarian efforts in Syria:
1. Restoring Essential Services: Years of conflict have devastated the country’s infrastructure, leaving widespread food insecurity, crippled healthcare systems, and damaged facilities such as the Tishreen Dam, which has disrupted water and electricity access for over 400,000 people.
2. Protecting Displaced Populations: Thousands remain unable to return home due to destroyed infrastructure, lack of basic services, and the threat of unexploded ordnance.
3. Empowering Women and Girls: Fletcher highlighted the resilience of Syrian women and girls, sharing stories of their determination and urging their inclusion in rebuilding efforts.
While progress has been made, Fletcher warned that far more needs to be done, including conducting a comprehensive needs assessment and securing greater funding for humanitarian aid.
—
Persistent Security Challenges
Although stability has improved in some regions, violence continues to pose significant concerns. Pedersen reported unrest in areas such as Homs, Hama, and coastal regions. Armed groups, including ISIL and more than 60 factions with conflicting agendas, remain active, threatening Syria’s territorial stability.
Key territories outside government control, such as those held by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and People’s Protection Units (YPG), remain volatile. Despite a US-mediated ceasefire near Manbij, clashes with Syrian National Army forces persist, and Turkey’s potential military escalation has raised tensions. Additionally, Israeli airstrikes and violations of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement over the Golan Heights have further exacerbated sovereignty concerns.
—
Sanctions and Economic Recovery
For the first time in New York, Syrian Ambassador Koussay Aldahhak presented the case for transitional authorities, advocating for the immediate lifting of sanctions imposed on the former regime. He argued that these sanctions impede humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts, urging global leaders to “respect the will of the Syrian people and its national choices.”
Pedersen acknowledged the economic challenges ahead, stressing that “a smooth end to sanctions, appropriate action on designations too, and major funding” are essential for feasible reconstruction. However, US Ambassador Dorothy Shea countered, asserting that sanctions do not obstruct humanitarian assistance and reiterated the US’ commitment to a “Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process.”
—
Charting a Path Forward
Pedersen outlined priorities to facilitate a credible and inclusive transition. These include broad representation in national dialogue, constitutional reforms, and free and fair elections. Fletcher echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful political transition to reduce humanitarian needs and foster stability.
—
Stable Peace: A Prerequisite for Relief and Recovery
“We need the peaceful political transition that will help us to reduce humanitarian needs,” Fletcher stated. He called for coordinated international efforts to support Syria during this critical juncture.
Ambassador Aldahhak revealed that the country is preparing for a national dialogue conference aimed at establishing a transitional government. This government would oversee key processes, including drafting a new constitution and organizing elections. He also expressed a vision for Syria’s future as a “positive contributor to the promotion of international peace and security,” committed to fostering relations based on mutual respect.
—
Global Commitment to Syria’s Future
As Syria rebuilds, the United Nations remains steadfast in its commitment to facilitate dialogue, deliver humanitarian aid, and ensure that the country’s future is shaped by its people, supported by united global efforts. This transitional phase is critical to laying the groundwork for a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Syria.
Leave a Reply