Syria: International Commission of Inquiry urges ensuring fair trials, solving detainee problem

The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria stressed the necessity of enhancing accountability and respect of human rights and law, urging the provision of fair trials, the solution of the detainee issue, issues of transitional justice, property, education, and hate speech.

This is following a visit of the Commissioners of the Commission, Mounia Ammar and Fionnuala Ní Aoláin, to Syria during the period between July 1 and 7, involving meetings with victims of violations, officials, and representatives of civil society, as well as visiting Homs and Quneitra.

The Commission condemned both attacks that took place in Damascus during the visit, which led to casualties, and affirmed its solidarity with the victims and their families.

The Commission In the context of the transitional justice issue, the committee underscored the significance of respecting the principle of legality and guarantees of a fair trial. It also highlighted the necessity of holding accountable all persons responsible for the violations committed during the events in Swedia and the coast region, emphasizing the importance of unveiling the truth and providing justice to all victims.

In relation to detainees, the committee pointed out the persistent reports submitted by families regarding the absence of information about the destiny of their relatives, demanding that all detentions should be legal and transparent.

The committee raised several issues such as property rights, education, and hate speech, stressing the importance of guaranteeing the freedom of expression and fostering social harmony in addition to ensuring the right to continue the education of children and students.

Additionally, the committee recommended expediting the repatriation process of nationals from other countries who reside in the Roj and Aq Burhan camps, as well as continued investigation by the committee in different parts of Syria regarding the aforementioned violations, detention, and transitional justice issues, and presenting their recommendations to the Syrian Interim Government and the international community.

ANHA