Protesters in Sweida demand accountability, better humanitarian conditions

Activists and civilians took part today in a protest in Al-Istiklal Square in the city center, in response to local calls circulated through civil platforms and community initiatives in the province under slogans such as “A year after the genocide… what next?” and “We will not leave… we will not be broken,” referring to the bloody events that took place in Sweida last July.

Participants raised banners and chanted slogans demanding the disclosure of the fate of abductees and missing persons, the opening of mass grave files, and the return of affected villages and their residents. They emphasized that areas in Sweida’s countryside continue to suffer from what they described as a “siege and violations” affecting dozens of villages.

According to the call, the protest aimed to recall the attacks and violations the province endured last year, which resulted in casualties and cases of abduction and disappearance, alongside demands to hold those responsible accountable, ensure civilian protection, and prevent the recurrence of such events.

Protesters also called for the internationalization of Sweida’s case, the opening of humanitarian corridors, strengthening local decision-making autonomy, combating corruption within institutions, and reassessing education and security files. They further urged legal action to pursue suspects through international courts.

Participants reiterated their support for what they described as “local forces responsible for protecting the province,” highlighting their role in maintaining security and holding those involved in chaos or “profiteering” accountable, while calling for adherence to the law and avoiding any internal escalation.

These protests come at a time when Sweida continues to experience social and political tensions, amid recurring public demands to improve security and living conditions, reveal the fate of abductees, and address the consequences of last year’s events.

A-H 

ANHA