UN Calls for Accountability for Victims of Serious Crimes in Syria

Four and a half months after the fall of the Assad regime, renewed hope for justice in Syria has emerged, according to Robert Petit, the newly appointed head of the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism. This entity is dedicated to investigating violent crimes committed during the Syrian civil war, which began in March 2011. Petit emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum in the pursuit of justice, warning that without it, victims may resort to violence as their only recourse. His remarks come as the Mechanism embarks on its first diplomatic engagement with Syrian authorities, marking a significant step in the quest for accountability.

Evidence of Torture and Progress in Investigations

During recent visits to Syria, officials from the Mechanism uncovered extensive documentation that requires urgent preservation, including the original Caesar files. These files serve as critical evidence of the widespread use of torture within the country. Petit noted that these documents depict the systematic abuse of individuals, with images showing bodies being removed from detention facilities. Despite facing resource constraints, the Mechanism has made notable strides, conducting 154 collection activities in 2024 alone. These efforts have directly supported successful prosecutions across various jurisdictions and have led to multiple arrest warrants for perpetrators of serious crimes. To date, the Mechanism has received 466 requests for assistance related to 321 distinct investigations.

Funding Challenges Amid Increased Workload

Despite the growing demands of its work, the Mechanism’s budget has remained stagnant since 2020, resulting in a significant funding gap of $7.5 million for 2025. This financial shortfall has forced the organization to reduce its workforce by 18 positions in 2024, leading to slower investigations and delayed assistance. Petit urged states to provide a sustainable budget and to consider making voluntary contributions, ideally through multi-year commitments. He emphasized the need for an inclusive transition process led by Syrians, who should define their own vision of justice at national, regional, and international levels. Such efforts, he argued, should be supported by the international community.

Calls for a Stable and Inclusive Future

Philemon Yang, President of the General Assembly, highlighted the necessity for Syrians to collaborate in establishing a stable, peaceful, and inclusive future. He acknowledged that while the current moment holds promise, it also requires caution. Yang stressed that accountability for serious crimes under international law is essential, as is the support of the international community for both Syria and the Mechanism. He underscored the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity.

Syria’s Critical Crossroads and the Need for Accountability

Syria’s Foreign Minister, Asaad Al-Shaibani, expressed gratitude for the Mechanism’s efforts, which he believes have shed light on the crimes committed by the Assad regime. He pointed out that Syria has endured over 45 years of suffering, with the injustices culminating in the civil war that began in 2011. Al-Shaibani described the country as being at a critical crossroads, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action to prevent future violence. He reiterated the government’s commitment to transitional justice and the establishment of a system that prevents conflict. Additionally, he called for the removal of outdated sanctions that hinder Syria’s ability to achieve lasting peace and stability, while also urging the international community to address ongoing violations of international law, particularly concerning Israeli incursions.

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