Fares Othman: Syria’s future hinges on modern constitution

Speaking to ANHA agency, Fares Othman highlighted the importance of drafting a new Syrian constitution that guarantees the rights of all components without exception.

Othman noted that the process of drafting the new constitution should begin with agreement on the form of governance—whether civil, centralized, federal, or religious—considering this step the cornerstone of any successful constitutional process.

He explained that once the system of governance is defined, agreement must follow on the fundamental principles of the constitution, including general laws, the separation of legislative, executive, and judicial powers, as well as guarantees for women’s rights and human rights, alongside adherence to international conventions, foremost among them the United Nations Human Rights Charter.

He added that these foundations would pave the way for forming a constitutional body representing all segments of society, including political parties and civil society organizations, with effective participation from women and youth, to later undertake the drafting of the constitution through a constituent assembly.

On the substance of the constitution, Othman pointed out that previous Syrian constitutions marginalized the rights of various societal components. He stressed that the new constitution must include explicit recognition of these components—particularly the Kurdish people—and ensure that their rights are закрепed in solid constitutional articles.

Othman emphasized that these rights should be “supra-constitutional,” meaning the constitution should be voted on as a whole rather than article by article, granting it legal strength that prevents future rollback.

He also underscored the importance of Kurdish representatives and legal experts participating in the drafting process and overseeing the work of the constituent body, noting that while laws and decrees can be amended or repealed, constitutional texts remain the primary guarantor of rights.

On ensuring the rights of all components, Othman stated that this can be achieved through a modern constitution that upholds the separation of powers, respects human rights principles, and guarantees the rights of all Syrians—Kurds, Arabs, Assyrians, Armenians, and others—while placing special emphasis on women’s rights.

In conclusion, Othman said: “We believe that Syria’s future depends on drafting a modern constitution that keeps pace with the requirements of the 21st century and guarantees the rights of all components of the Syrian people without exception, foremost among them the Kurdish people, through clear constitutional provisions that cannot be reversed, thereby laying the foundation for a democratic state based on justice and equality.”

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ANHA