Guterres: UN is ready to support inclusive political transition in Syria

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in a press statement, marking the 14th anniversary of "the Syrian people's uprising and their demand for rights and freedoms": "Nothing justifies the killing of civilians, as reported in recent days. All acts of violence must stop, and independent, impartial, and credible investigations into violations must be conducted. Those responsible must be held accountable."

He expressed concern that the bright future the Syrian people so desperately deserve is now at risk.

He emphasized the urgent need to take bold and decisive measures to ensure that Syrians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, or gender, can live safely, with dignity, and without fear.

The Secretary-General began his statement by noting that this month marks the 14th anniversary of the Syrian people's uprising, when they took to the streets in peaceful demonstrations to demand their universal rights and freedoms, only to face brutal repression. He added, "What began as a call for peaceful change turned into one of the most devastating conflicts in the world, with a human cost beyond measure."

Guterres pointed out that the war in Syria has witnessed the use of chemical weapons and barrel bombs that killed men, women, and children indiscriminately. He also noted that prolonged sieges have starved entire communities and turned food and medicine into weapons of war.

He stated that the Syrian people have never wavered in their steadfast and courageous calls for freedom, dignity, and a just future.

He affirmed that the United Nations is ready to work side by side with the Syrian people to support an inclusive political transition that ensures accountability, promotes national recovery, and lays the foundation for Syria’s long-term recovery and reintegration into the international community.

He said, "We stand with the Syrian people to fulfill the promise of a better future, for all Syrians. Together, we must ensure that Syria emerges from the shadows of war into a future based on dignity and the rule of law, where all voices are heard, and no one is excluded."

A-H

ANHA