UN Envoy warns: Syria’s transition at risk

Pedersen, addressing the Security Council chaired by Pakistan, cautioned that Syria’s transitional process faced severe setbacks last month due to intensified violence and significant casualties, undermining trust and increasing the risk of division.

He described the violence in Suweida as a "profound shock" to Syrians, noting that such violations "should not have happened."

Pedersen strongly condemned the "horrific violations" targeting civilians and fighters, as well as Israeli airstrikes, citing credible reports received by his office and the UN Human Rights Office of widespread abuses, including field executions, arbitrary killings, abductions, and looting.

He expressed concern over reports of Druze women being abducted after security forces entered certain areas, alongside the disappearance of women, children, and men. Pedersen highlighted "disturbing patterns of targeting women," recalling similar incidents in other parts of Syria this year.

He called on authorities to release the investigation report on the coastal region events, ensure justice for victims, and hold all responsible parties accountable without exception.

Fragmented Security and Sectarian Behavior

Pedersen acknowledged that Syria’s security structure remains "fragmented," with numerous militias and irregular fighters hindering the state’s ability to assert sovereignty. He condemned sectarian incitement and violations during security operations as "unacceptable," urging the transitional government to act professionally, ensure accountability, and rebuild trust with citizens.

He stressed the need for security sector reform, disarmament, and demobilization of armed groups within a comprehensive program linked to transitional justice, noting that its absence obstructs Syria’s societal recovery.

Challenges to Political Transition

Pedersen emphasized that trust in security is inseparable from the credibility of the political process, stating that "loyalty is not imposed by force but earned through an inclusive process that promotes rights and equality." He noted that the transition remains "incomplete" amid complaints of weak transparency, limited participation, and lack of genuine public consultations.

He also expressed concern over the "shrinking space for freedom of expression," citing threats faced by women in Idlib who protested the events in Suweida.

Anticipated Paris Agreement

Regarding NE Syria, Pedersen noted that the implementation of the March 10 agreement between the transitional government and the Syrian Democratic Forces remains stalled, despite a recent meeting on July 9 attended by diplomats from Washington and Paris. He confirmed efforts to hold another meeting in Paris, urging both sides to make concessions to build trust and achieve progress before year-end.

Pedersen concluded his briefing by emphasizing that issues of security, rule of law, national unity, and political inclusivity are interconnected and cannot be separated. He warned that continued violence "threatens to shatter trust to a point that is difficult to repair."

He revealed that a prominent Syrian group recently proposed holding a new, more inclusive, and comprehensive national conference.

Pedersen affirmed the UN’s readiness to provide full support to ensure the success of a Syrian-led, inclusive political transition process.

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ANHA