UN human rights chief Volker Türk urged the lifting of Western sanctions on Syria to facilitate the country’s rebuilding process post-Assad. He emphasized the need for transitional justice and human rights respect, meeting with new leaders to discuss reforms. Türk’s visit signifies a commitment to enhancing public trust and ensuring Syria’s integrity amidst ongoing challenges.
The United Nations human rights commissioner, Volker Türk, called for the removal of Western sanctions against Syria due to the recent political changes following the ouster and exile of former President Bashar Assad. During his visit to Syria, Türk emphasized the importance of transitional justice for victims to foster public trust in the country’s evolving state institutions. He met with Ahmad al-Sharaa, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, who assured Türk of the commitment to human rights, social cohesion, and necessary reforms.
The civil conflict in Syria, which began in early 2011, resulted in significant fatalities and displacement, with nearly half a million lives lost and millions turned into refugees. The destruction inflicted on the nation demands enormous financial resources for reconstruction, estimated to be in the tens of billions of dollars. Western nations imposed sanctions on Assad’s regime shortly after the outbreak of violence, contemplating the implications of these sanctions on the Syrian populace amid ongoing instability.
The UN human rights chief’s advocacy for lifting sanctions reflects a broader call for humanitarian assistance as Syria moves towards reconstruction under new leadership. His discussions with Syrian authorities indicate hope for progress in human rights and governance, emphasizing that support for the Syrian people is crucial in this transition. Continued dialogue and an assessment of sanction impacts are essential for aiding Syria in its recovery.
Original Source: apnews.com
