Human Rights Watch recently called attention to the potential pitfalls of rapid redevelopment efforts in Syria, where billions in investments are being channeled without adequate legal safeguards. Following years of devastating civil conflict, international investors are eyeing reconstruction opportunities in the nation, but there are concerns about the impact on Syrian citizens lacking solid legal protections.
According to Hiba Zayadin, Senior Middle East Advisor for Human Rights Watch, the slow pace of reconstruction in Syria remains overshadowed by a lack of a comprehensive rights-based framework. This framework is crucial to ensure fairness and equity in whose homes are rebuilt and whose claims are respected. As displaced Syrians begin the arduous return to their homes, issues such as infrastructure damage and property disputes present significant challenges.
International interest in Syria’s reconstruction is palpable. The United States has made strides in what it terms “commercial diplomacy,” sending representatives from 50 companies to explore investment opportunities. Both Saudi Arabia and Qatar have taken significant financial steps by clearing $15.5 billion of Syria’s World Bank debt while committing additional billions in infrastructure development. The European Union has also pledged over $700 million, with more support anticipated in upcoming forums.
Human Rights Watch has highlighted specific areas such as Ghadfa and Jobar, where essential services like water, electricity, and healthcare remain absent, despite continued investment. The absence of community participation and mechanisms for compensation or grievances further exacerbates these problems. Zayadin underscores the importance of leveraging the ongoing development of Syria’s legal frameworks to protect communities, citing commitments under international covenants that ensure housing security and effective remedy.
The organization advises Syria’s transitional government to utilize Article 12 of the March 2025 Constitutional Declaration, which affirms the protection of human rights, to guide its reconstruction strategy. This involves implementing community involvement mandates, establishing grievance mechanisms, and halting the destruction of contested properties until rightful claims are resolved. Human Rights Watch also urges international investors to align with human rights principles as outlined in global conventions and guidelines.
This period of redevelopment in Syria offers an opportunity to build a more resilient socio-economic landscape. However, the absence of robust legal structures could mean that the benefits of international investments do not reach those most in need, risking a reconstruction phase that fails to adhere to equitable and just standards. For further details, the context of this issue can be explored through a more extensive analysis here.