Diplomatic efforts with Syria’s new leadership cannot ignore ongoing attacks on the freedom of women, minorities, and the press
Photo: AP video still
We are extremely disturbed to hear from Syrian partners of increasing attacks on the rights of women, on freedom of expression, and on religious minorities. These should be a red flag for the future under the country’s new de facto leadership, the armed group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
In the first days of the new administration, violations have been carried out against:
Freedom of expression: popular radio station Sham FM has been shut down by the new authorities
Rights of women: equal rights are under threat after statements from HTS’ official spokesman that women are “biologically unsuited” to certain jobs - including government roles.
The rights of minority groups, especially Alawites, with people subjected to violence and intimidation, including abductions and extrajudicial killings carried out against those accused of working for the previous regime.
Freedom of religion: governors appointed by HTS have all been graduates from Islamic schools
Syria’s new administration is attempting to establish itself as a credible government but it cannot be recognised as such if the fundamental rights of Syrians - including women, religious minorities, the media - are being trampled.
The international community has been in direct contact with the HTS administration in Syria, and we call on global governments to use their increasing contacts and leverage with Syria’s de facto leadership to prevent further attacks on the rights and safety of Syrians.
The collapse of the Assad regime means that the Syrian people have an opportunity to finally build a peaceful, democratic, and just future after decades of brutal dictatorship and years of civil war. We are deeply concerned about the extremist background of Syria’s new de facto leadership. Reports that women, religious minorities and the media are coming under attack are an urgent warning that the conflict is not over. Transitional justice is a necessary step in the political process for Syria, but it must be fair, transparent, and conducted to international standards.
The international community’s policies towards Syria under the Assad regime and during the conflict has been characterised by deep self-interest, ignoring the rights and wellbeing of the Syrian people. That cannot continue in this transitiona