In a historic meeting in Damascus, UN human rights chief Volker Türk voiced deep concern over the humanitarian crisis faced by Syrians, particularly former detainees from the ousted Assad regime. He emphasized his solidarity with the people as they strive to rebuild the nation into a prosperous state for everyone. Ahmad Al-Sharaa, the caretaker authority’s leader, assured him of the importance of respecting human rights across all Syrian communities.
Mr. Türk highlighted the monumental challenges Syria faces, noting the staggering loss of life and devastation left behind by the conflict. He pointed out that today, nine in ten Syrians live in poverty, the healthcare system is severely strained, and countless schools remain shuttered. With millions displaced, he called for collective efforts to uphold fundamental human rights, including access to food and education.
Urging a re-evaluation of sanctions on Syria, Türk stated it is crucial to understand how they impact the lives of ordinary Syrians. Despite being the first UN rights chief to visit Syria, he learned about the horrifying experiences of torture victims, including those from the infamous Sednaya prison. The unsettling stories painted a grim picture of fear and inhumanity faced by detainees in such facilities.
During his visit to Jobar, a neighborhood steeped in destruction, he described it as an “apocalyptic wasteland,” where no building escaped the ravaging bombardments. The mass killings and systematic attacks, including the use of chemical weapons, showcase the ruthless tactics employed by the former regime, constituting serious breaches of international humanitarian law.
As Türkiye seeks to help rebuild, the rights chief emphasized the necessity for total respect for Syria’s sovereignty amid ongoing chaos. He warned of tangible threats to the country’s unity and declared it a defining moment for Syria, post-decades of repression. His ultimate aspiration is for a future where all Syrians can live, thrive, and collaborate, regardless of their backgrounds, to foster a common future together.
UN rights chief Volker Türk met with caretaker authority leader Ahmad Al-Sharaa in Damascus, expressing solidarity with the Syrian people amid their suffering. He emphasized the grave humanitarian crisis, with widespread poverty and displacement. Call for reevaluation of sanctions and respect for human rights was highlighted during his visit, which is a crucial moment in Syria’s history post-conflict.
Volker Türk’s visit to Syria underscores the pressing need for humanitarian aid and the restoration of human rights. The acknowledgment of the immense adversity faced by the Syrian people highlights the importance of global support in rebuilding their society. As the country stands at a crossroads, paving a future rooted in dignity and equality remains a hopeful yet challenging endeavor.
The meeting marked a significant event as it was the first time a UN human rights chief visited Syria. It comes at a time when the country struggles with extensive human rights violations, poverty, and displacement resulting from years of civil war. The residents of Syria are still trying to heal and recover from the devastation brought upon them, and the UN’s role in monitoring and advocating for human rights is critical now more than ever.
Original Source: news.un.org
