UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, has issued a passionate plea for an immediate end to hostilities and a call for all parties involved in the conflict to protect civilians in accordance with international law. In a statement released on Friday, Pedersen reflected on the tragic beginnings of the Syrian conflict, which started as peaceful pro-democracy protests on March 15, 2011, only to be met with brutal repression.
He emphasized the immense suffering endured by the Syrian people, with families mourning the loss of loved ones, communities fractured, millions displaced from their homes, and many still searching for missing relatives. Pedersen stressed that the pain and sacrifices of the Syrian people must never be forgotten.
The conflict in Syria began with peaceful protests calling for political reform, but quickly escalated into a brutal and devastating crisis. In the initial months of the conflict, as many as 2,000 civilians were killed, and thousands more were subjected to enforced disappearances, torture, deprivation of liberty, and persecution. The then UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, described the violations against civilians as “widespread and systematic,” potentially amounting to crimes against humanity.
Over the years, Syria has been plagued by medieval sieges, chemical weapon attacks, and barrel bombs, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of civilians and the displacement of over 12 million people, including six million refugees who fled to neighboring countries.
Although the Assad regime fell in December 2024, Syria remains at a critical juncture, with ongoing fighting between forces of the Syrian Caretaker Authority and loyalists to the former regime, as well as a pressing humanitarian crisis. Pedersen acknowledged the emotions of hope and fear experienced by Syrians in this pivotal moment, expressing deep concern over the continued violence against civilians.
Building trust is essential for a successful transition in Syria, and Pedersen warned that a climate of distrust and fear could jeopardize the entire process. He called for inclusive governance, highlighting the National Dialogue as a foundation and urging concrete actions to follow up on commitments. Pedersen also welcomed the newly issued Constitutional Declaration by the caretaker authorities, hoping that it would pave the way for restoring the rule of law and facilitating a stable transition.
Now is the time for bold and decisive actions to establish a credible and inclusive transitional government, legislative body, and constitutional framework, as well as a process for drafting a new constitution that is legitimate and inclusive, along with genuine transitional justice. Pedersen underscored the importance of full political inclusion of Syrian women in shaping the future of the country, emphasizing the UN’s readiness to support these efforts in line with Security Council resolution 2254.
As the conflict in Syria continues to ravage the country and its people, the international community must come together to support efforts for peace, stability, and justice in the region. The atrocities committed in Syria must not be forgotten, and all parties involved must prioritize the protection of civilians and adhere to international humanitarian law. Geir Pedersen’s call for an immediate end to hostilities and his plea for the protection of civilians serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for peace and resolution in Syria.
