In the aftermath of President Bashar al-Assad’s fall, Syria faces a critical juncture that demands coordinated international support, according to Adam Abdelmoula, the UN Assistant Secretary-General and Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Syria. In a recent call to action, Abdelmoula has highlighted the necessity for inclusive governance, adherence to the rule of law, and sustained humanitarian efforts as central pillars to guide Syria through its challenging political transition.
With Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group classified by the UN Security Council as a terrorist organization, in control of the new governmental structures, Abdelmoula made clear the UN’s stance on engagement. “There is no prohibition whatsoever on any UN entity to interact with the HTS, regardless of whether it’s labelled a terrorist organization or not,” he stated, reinforcing the UN’s commitment to working with diverse factions to foster stability and humanitarian outreach.
Abdelmoula underscored the importance of safeguarding potential evidence and mass grave sites linked to alleged crimes by Assad’s regime. This preservation is crucial for any prospective transitional justice initiatives that may invoke both international and domestic legal mechanisms. “I’m very, very, very worried that many of these places will be ransacked by the rebel forces,” he added, stressing the urgency of this protection.
The recent uptick in international interest, as reflected in incidents like Israeli air strikes and border skirmishes, presents an opportunity, Abdelmoula argued, for global players to contribute positively towards Syria’s future. He appealed for a balanced reconstruction strategy that respects humanitarian needs while also ensuring respect for human rights and accountability processes.
Abdelmoula posited that the stakes surrounding Syria’s stability resonate far beyond its borders: “The stability of Syria will benefit everyone – not only the sub-region but the entire world,” he asserted. This clarion call is aimed at rallying the global community to expedite efforts in securing a durable peace and development pathway for Syria.
For further details, the full report on Abdelmoula’s statement is available on JURIST.