HRW: Syria’s Transitional Government lacks transparency on justice

Human Rights Watch said that the transitional government has so far failed to demonstrate the required level of transparency and seriousness in fulfilling its promises to deliver comprehensive justice for victims of violations committed during Syria’s ongoing conflict, despite the historic opportunity created by the fall of the former regime.

The organization added that the government’s actions have been mostly symbolic, such as referencing “transitional justice” in the constitutional declaration and merely expressing an intention to move forward with accountability for serious crimes. It called on the authorities to adopt concrete steps to strengthen justice efforts for victims, using both international and domestic mechanisms.

Regarding the local committees formed to investigate the massacres in the coast and in Sweida, the report noted that the creation and functioning of these committees remain unclear, with no explanation of their legal basis, their guarantees of independence, or any roadmap they might have for holding all perpetrators accountable regardless of affiliation.

Human Rights Watch stated that the transitional government has so far focused only on violations committed by the former regime, while accountability must be expanded to include crimes committed by all parties between 2011 and 2024, in line with the principles of equality before the law and the rights of all victims.

The organization expressed doubts about the effectiveness of local prosecutions of atrocities, which may be hindered by a lack of capacity, political will, or both.

The report said that this lack of clarity raises concerns among victims’ families, especially in light of ongoing protests in various parts of Syria demanding the disclosure of the fate of the missing.

HRW also considered the exclusion of victims and civil society groups from shaping justice pathways inconsistent with the transitional government’s commitments to consultation and openness.

Human Rights Watch reaffirmed that following the fall of the former regime, it became clear that meaningful and comprehensive, Syrian-led justice is essential. However, such justice requires genuine commitment and political will.

The organization outlined several essential steps the transitional government must take in the coming phase, including:

Announcing a clear justice and accountability plan covering all parties without selectivity.

Strengthening cooperation with international mechanisms including, the Commission of Inquiry, and the International Court of Justice.

Implementing urgent legislative reforms related to detention and the criminal justice system.

Joining the International Criminal Court and granting it jurisdiction over past crimes.

Involving victims and survivors in designing and implementing transitional justice processes.

a.k

ANHA