UN: Syria's transitional success relies on inclusive institutions

Speaking via video link to the UN Security Council on Tuesday, UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Claudio Cordone said the success of Syria's transition would not be measured by the number of institutions established, but by their ability to operate effectively, independently, and serve all Syrians.

Cordone said the appointment of members to the Supreme Constitutional Court and the launch of the new People's Assembly marked important milestones in the transitional process. He emphasized that the independence of the legislative and judicial branches from the executive is essential to building a credible and sustainable transition.

He stressed that rebuilding trust requires an inclusive system of governance that ensures the participation of women and all components of society, while advancing transitional justice and accountability and delivering tangible improvements to Syrians' daily lives.

On the security front, Cordone said efforts to address violations committed during the years of conflict are ongoing. He noted progress in implementing the agreement to integrate military and security forces in northeast Syria, but warned that the political deadlock in Sweida persists, stressing that accountability for the events of July 2025 is a key step toward restoring trust.

He also expressed concern over continued Israeli military operations in southern Syria, saying they have caused civilian casualties, displacement, and restrictions on residents' movement.

On the economic front, Cordone said recent cooperation agreements between Syria and France reflect growing international confidence in the country's recovery process, but stressed that their success will ultimately be measured by their impact on improving Syrians' living conditions.

Meanwhile, Edem Wosornu, Director of the Operations and Advocacy Division at the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), said Syria has a genuine opportunity to move from reliance on humanitarian aid toward recovery, noting that around 1.7 million refugees and 1.9 million internally displaced people have returned.

She added that about 15.6 million people still require humanitarian assistance, saying that limited basic services, housing shortages, lack of job opportunities, rubble removal, and ongoing security challenges continue to hinder returns.

Wosornu said women and girls continue to face severe risks and challenges, stressing the importance of access to reproductive healthcare, maternal health services, psychosocial support, and protection services.

She warned that continued tensions in southern Syria threaten recovery efforts and urged the Security Council to ensure sustainable humanitarian funding, invest in recovery and reconstruction projects, protect civilians, and guarantee unhindered humanitarian access. 

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ANHA