UN Special Envoy: political transition in Syria faces challenges that require inclusivity and accountability

The Deputy Special Envoy of the United Nations to Syria, Claudio Cordone, affirmed that the interim phase requires strengthening inclusivity and accountability, achieving transitional justice, and addressing issues of integration between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Syrian Interim Government, as well as the tensions in Swaida

23 June, 2026 09:28

NEWSDESK

During a session of the UN Security Council, Cordone noted the continued concern over the delay in forming the parliament (People's Assembly), calling for genuine representation of women and all components of Syrian society in political institutions.

He stated that the political transition process in the country is at a "critical stage characterized by both opportunities and fragility."

The UN official stressed the need to achieve transitional justice and hold all perpetrators of violations and crimes accountable, including those involved in sexual violence related to attacks in the Syrian coastal region. He urged the interim government to take effective measures to ensure accountability and protect victims.

On the security front, he noted the continued implementation of the agreement between the Syrian Interim Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), including the integration of some military formations, while acknowledging that some issues and files "remain to be addressed," as he put it.

He encouraged continued engagement in constructive efforts to advance the implementation of the agreement in a way that promotes inclusivity and national unity.

He also pointed to the ongoing tension in Swaida due to the lack of progress in confidence-building measures.

Cordone criticized the continued Israeli military activity in southern Syria, calling on Israel to abide by the 1974 Disengagement Agreement.

Humanitarian Situation

For his part, the Acting Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Indrika Ratwati, affirmed that humanitarian needs in Syria remain high despite relief efforts, noting the continued displacement and the uneven conditions for the safe return of displaced persons.

He also pointed out that the recent floods on the banks of the Euphrates River affected more than 17,000 people, at a time when the humanitarian appeal for Syria is still suffering from a lack of funding, as it has received only about 20% of the required amount of $2.92 billion

Sh-S

ANHA