As the anniversary of the old regime’s fall approaches, signs of progress are visible in Syria, said Mohammad Al Nsour, head of the Middle East and North Africa section at the OHCHR. He noted improvements during each visit to Damascus, where the OHCHR now has a permanent team after years of remote monitoring from Beirut due to the former government’s restrictions.
Despite ongoing security challenges and urgent needs for reconstruction, progress is being made. Al Nsour emphasized a positive governmental attitude, with daily interactions between OHCHR and Syrian authorities focused on legal reforms and human rights enhancements. This collaboration aims to prevent violations rather than assigning blame.
Syria is preparing for its first Human Rights Day on December 10, a milestone co-organized with the OHCHR and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focusing on reconstruction from a human rights perspective.
Accountability remains vital, with a national inquiry into recent coastal violence and ongoing international investigations into past violations. Transitional justice is a 2026 priority, advocating for accountability, truth, reparations, and reconciliation.
The OHCHR promotes women’s political representation and supports women-led civil society organizations, training them in advocacy and connecting them to global human rights mechanisms.
Al Nsour highlighted the resilience and proactive efforts of Syrian youth in community rebuilding as a vital hope for the future. Despite financial challenges, donor interest in supporting human rights in Syria is increasing.
As Human Rights Day approaches, the overall message is one of fragile yet visible progress and growing hope.
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