Gabriel Shamoun calls for new Syrian constitution to protect rights of all components

Shamoun stated that the process of drafting the new constitution requires practical steps that ensure the involvement of all forces and communities. Achieving justice and equality demands a constitution that meets the aspirations of all Syrians.

He explained: “The essential step in drafting the constitution is to form a committee including representatives from all political parties that participated in the struggle for Syria’s freedom, without excluding any ethnic or political group.” Such participation is necessary to ensure the constitution reflects the Syrian people’s expectations.

Shamoun added: “The constitution-drafting process should not be limited to political elites; it should involve broad discussions with Syrian society across all regions so that everyone contributes to a draft that reflects the will of the Syrian people.”

He stressed that the new constitution must guarantee full and non-negotiable rights for all Syrian communities—including Kurds, Arabs, Syriac-Assyrians, Turkmen, Circassians, and Armenians—in line with human rights principles and international law.

Recognizing the rights of communities should be complete, not symbolic, ensuring a genuinely participatory political life based on partnership among all Syrians.

Regarding recent violations in some Christian-majority areas.

Shamoun noted the urgent need to establish a social contract to curb practices that harm civil peace and fuel sectarian tensions. Confronting hate speech should be a priority through strict laws applied to all.

He concluded by emphasizing that the interim government bears significant responsibility in addressing these violations and holding accountable anyone who attacks civilians’ rights or incites hatred, asserting that building a new Syria requires justice, accountability, and the consolidation of shared living values.

ANHA