The UN has addressed the plight of Syrian families searching for missing persons, highlighting the importance of transitional justice and victim participation. Yasmen Almashan advocated for a national policy while UN officials discussed successful initiatives in other conflict regions. Concerns over threats to international law protecting against genocide were also raised, emphasizing the need for collective action.
The United Nations recently highlighted the suffering of Syrian families searching for the fate of over 130,000 missing persons. Yasmen Almashan, a member of the Caesar Families Association, shared her personal loss of five brothers during the civil war and advocated for the establishment of a national transitional justice policy in Syria to address these issues effectively. She emphasized that victims’ participation is crucial for successful transitional justice and the promotion of human rights in affected countries.
Almashan recalled the regime’s earlier refusal to exhibit photos from the Caesar Files, which showed the horrors of torture endured by detainees. Her advocacy efforts have contributed to the UN General Assembly passing Resolution 77/301, establishing the Independent Institution for the Missing in Syria, which focuses on integrating victim voices in the reconciliation process.
During the council discussions, UN human rights chief Volker Türk encouraged member states to confront past crimes while ensuring future generations do not suffer. He cited successful initiatives in Guatemala where victims assisted in the conviction of military personnel guilty of crimes against humanity. Emphasizing a victim-centered approach, Türk underscored the need for inclusive and innovative strategies in transitional justice efforts.
Mr. Türk also noted the significance of addressing ongoing conflicts, mentioning Colombia’s reconciliatory measures and Kenya’s programs supporting survivors of sexual violence. Furthermore, he highlighted successful reparations given to Chad’s victims as a result of civil society activism.
Sofija Todorovic, from the Youth Initiative for Human Rights, called for youth involvement in discussions about building equitable futures. She asserted the collective responsibility to empower young individuals with opportunities for progress.
In an additional address, UN human rights deputy chief Nada Al-Nashif warned about the increasing threats to international laws that safeguard humanity from atrocities. She pointed to the critical indicators of genocide, such as discrimination and the incitement of hatred. Al-Nashif urged for a robust global commitment to prevent genocide and ensure accountability for those contributing to such crimes, reiterating the imperative to uphold global norms established post-Holocaust.
Ultimately, the session convened by the UN emphasized the plight of Syrian families, the necessity for transitional justice, the empowerment of youth, and the urgent need to protect international laws against the backdrop of global crises.
The recent UN discussions have spotlighted the critical need for transitional justice in Syria, addressing the prolonged suffering of families affected by enforced disappearances. Yasmen Almashan’s advocacy illustrates the need for victim participation in reconciliation efforts. UN officials have highlighted successful examples of victim-driven initiatives in other regions, stressing inclusivity and innovation. Furthermore, increased vigilance is required to safeguard international principles against rising threats of genocide and atrocities globally, urging collective action to prevent future tragedies.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
