Syrian rights activist warns against hate speech and sectarianism

Syria has recently witnessed an increase in sectarian rhetoric and practices, raising concerns about their impact on social cohesion, the unity of the social fabric, and the future of coexistence among the country's diverse communities.

In this context, Hussein Nasso stated that Syrian society has endured one of the most difficult and complex periods in its modern history over the past 14 years. He noted that the war and the conflicts and divisions accompanying it have left hundreds of thousands dead, wounded, or missing, while millions have been displaced both inside and outside the country.

Nasso explained that these developments have left deep wounds in Syria's social fabric, which cannot be overcome without a serious and comprehensive effort to address the causes behind them. He pointed out that the spread of hate speech, accusations of treason, and the decline of a culture of dialogue and understanding have intensified tensions and reinforced distrust among different social groups.

He added that policies of exclusion and marginalization pursued in recent years, along with the concentration of power at the expense of national partnership institutions, have further deepened divisions and weakened prospects for building a state based on citizenship and the rule of law. He also stressed that the absence of independent and effective judicial institutions has contributed to widespread feelings of injustice and inequality among Syrians.

Nasso emphasized that addressing these challenges requires launching a comprehensive national dialogue involving all components of Syrian society to rebuild trust and develop a shared vision for the country's future. He also called for drafting a modern, democratic constitutional declaration that enshrines equal citizenship and guarantees rights and freedoms for all Syrians without discrimination.

He further urged the formation of a specialized national committee to draft a permanent constitution with the participation of experts and representatives from Syria's various social, cultural, and political groups. In addition, he called for restructuring the transitional justice system on the basis of independence, integrity, and transparency to ensure accountability for all those responsible for violations and crimes committed against Syrians, in accordance with the principles of justice and the rule of law.

The Syrian rights activist also stressed the importance of adopting legislation that criminalizes hate speech and incitement to violence and sectarian strife, while promoting pluralism and coexistence. He further called for supporting independent and professional media institutions that encourage tolerance, mutual respect, citizenship, and national unity.

Nasso concluded by stressing that pursuing these measures, alongside reconciliation, development, and reconstruction efforts, would strengthen civil peace, rebuild trust among Syrians, restore social cohesion, and help establish a just and stable state that embraces all its citizens.

ANHA