UN Commissioner Türk Urges Immediate Halt to Civilian Killings in Syria and Calls for Investigations
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has called for an immediate cessation of civilian killings in the coastal regions of northwest Syria, urging swift action to protect vulnerable populations.
Escalating Violence Against Civilians in Northwest Syria
Following a series of coordinated attacks reportedly carried out by elements of the former Syrian government and other local armed groups in the coastal regions of northwest Syria, deeply concerning reports have emerged. Entire families, including women, children, and individuals unable to fight, have been killed. There are also accounts of summary executions based on sectarian grounds, allegedly perpetrated by unidentified actors, security forces linked to the caretaker authorities, and elements associated with the former government.
These acts of violence highlight the urgent need for accountability and justice. Türk emphasized that the caretaker authorities’ declaration of intent to uphold the rule of law must be followed by concrete measures to safeguard Syrians. This includes taking all necessary steps to prevent violations and abuses, ensuring accountability when they occur, and conducting immediate, transparent, and impartial investigations into all killings and other violations.
The Need for Accountability and Transparent Investigations
Türk stressed that those responsible for these atrocities must be held accountable in line with international law standards. This applies not only to individuals but also to groups terrorizing civilians. The UN Commissioner underscored that justice must be served to deter further violence and to provide closure to victims and their families.
A Call for Comprehensive Transitional Justice
The recent events, coupled with the rising tide of hate speech both online and offline, underscore the pressing need for a comprehensive, nationally owned transitional justice process in Syria. Such a process should be inclusive, focusing on truth, justice, and accountability. It must address the root causes of violence and ensure that all communities are represented in rebuilding a just society.
Türk’s statement serves as a reminder that without immediate action and international cooperation, the cycle of violence in Syria risks spiraling further out of control, leaving countless more civilians at risk.
Joint Statement by Syrian Patriarchs on Coastal Cities’ Violence
