Syria backs UN resolution to probe human rights abuses

Syria has welcomed a United Nations resolution aimed at investigating human rights abuses and improving the country’s record following 13 years of brutal civil conflict under former President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

The resolution, which calls on Syria’s new government to support inquiries into crimes committed since the conflict began in 2011, passed unanimously at the Human Rights Council in Geneva on Friday.

The move signals a shift in the stance of the 47-member council, now showing increased support for Syria’s efforts to reform and address past violations. “Such international support serves as a strong incentive to continue the path of reform,” said Haydar Ali Ahmad, Syria’s ambassador to the UN in Geneva.

The resolution comes amid significant changes in Syria’s political landscape. Rebels led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, now president of the new transitional government, seized control of Damascus in December, prompting former President Assad to flee to Russia. The 13-year conflict has resulted in the disappearance of more than 100,000 people, alongside widespread reports of torture and the use of chemical weapons.

Under mounting pressure to demonstrate a clear break from its past, Syria’s new government welcomed the resolution. “We are proud of Syria’s positive and constructive participation in drafting the resolution for the first time,” said Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani in a statement posted on social media.

Members of the Human Rights Council urged Syria to uphold the commitments outlined in the resolution, including the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry to investigate serious crimes committed during the war. British Ambassador to the UN Simon Manley described the killing of hundreds of Alwaite civilians in March as a “chilling reminder of the deep wounds” left by the conflict, emphasizing the need for justice and accountability.

The resolution is expected to bolster international efforts to address past abuses and support Syria’s transition toward greater transparency and reform in its human rights practices.

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