The Chairman of the Independent International Commission: How to stop the violence in Syria
The Chairman of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria, Paulo Sérgio Pinheiro, warned that the continued violence in the country threatens to expand the conflict, stressing that a solution requires a comprehensive ceasefire, the disarmament of armed groups, the restoration of security, and the end of the presence of foreign forces in Syria.
In a speech delivered during the 58th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Pinheiro called on the Syrian transitional authorities to seize a unique opportunity to chart a new course that ends the tragedies of the past and rebuilds trust in Syria’s diverse society.
Pinheiro emphasized that the Syrian people are the ones who decide on the next steps, whether through uncovering the truth about the disappeared or implementing reforms and accountability.
He noted that the committee had received information about the formation of an independent commission of inquiry into the recent events on the Syrian coast, expressing his hope that the commission would operate with complete transparency and independence.
Since last December, the commission has visited detention facilities in Damascus and its countryside, including Sednaya Prison and the Mezzeh branch of Air Force Intelligence, where the commission previously documented serious violations.
Pinheiro also explained that the commission met with victims, witnesses, and activists working to promote justice and peace in Syria.
He stressed that determining the fate of tens of thousands of missing persons requires extensive efforts led by the interim authorities, in cooperation with human rights bodies and humanitarian organizations.
Pinheiro added that the Syrians who spoke to the committee called for justice and accountability as essential factors for the country’s recovery from the conflict, noting the need for criminal proceedings against high-level perpetrators and measures to ensure truth, reparations, and the prevention of atrocities.
He also pointed to the rapid economic deterioration in Syria, warning that the lack of humanitarian funding is increasing frustration, leading to an escalation of violence.
He called for the lifting of sanctions that are hampering recovery and reconstruction efforts.
In the south, Pinheiro noted rising tensions as a result of increased Israeli attacks, which have caused the displacement of civilians from the Quneitra countryside.
In the north, he confirmed increased ISIS activity, with thousands still being held by the Syrian Democratic Forces due to their association with the group.
He called on member states to recover their detained citizens and bring those involved in the crimes to justice.
