Syrian rights groups call for accountability at Paris meeting on Syria
PARIS, Syria (North Press) – Syrian human rights advocates called on Saturday for holding war criminals accountable—foremost among them former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad—and for the restitution of stolen assets and properties accumulated over years of conflict.
The demands came during meetings with French and Syrian officials on the sidelines of the Paris conference on Syria.
Izzadin Saleh, Executive Director of Hevdesti/Synergy Association for Victims, told North Press that the Paris meeting emphasized the need for transitional justice in Syria.
A delegation representing Syrian civil society organizations and victims’ families met with Asaad al-Shaibani, Foreign Minister of Syria’s caretaker government, and Jean-Noël Barrot, French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, during the conference.
According to Saleh, the meetings with Barrot and al-Shaibani focused on the pursuit of transitional justice, accountability, and efforts to build Syria’s future.
“One of the key recommendations presented to both the French and Syrian ministers was ensuring that victims, survivors, and their families play a leading and active role in all phases of the transitional justice process,” Saleh said.
The recommendations also stressed that achieving lasting stability requires comprehensive justice that prevents the recurrence of past violations while guaranteeing reparations and compensation for victims.
Participants emphasized the importance of prosecuting perpetrators of war crimes and reclaiming looted funds and properties.
They called for accountability for all individuals responsible for crimes against the Syrian people, including Bashar al-Assad.
Other recommendations included acknowledgment of past violations, developing a collective Syrian narrative, addressing all abuses within a transitional justice framework, and countering sectarian and inflammatory rhetoric.
Saleh noted that the attendees urged an end to all military operations, the protection of civilians across Syria, and the pursuit of a political solution aimed at halting hostilities.
They also stressed the right to the safe, dignified, and voluntary return of displaced Syrians, along with the restitution of their property and rights.
Further recommendations presented by Syrian civil society groups and victims’ families highlighted ensuring women’s access to justice without fear.
They called for a gender-sensitive approach in transitional justice programs, ensuring that women are treated according to their unique experiences and needs, and facilitating their dignified access to justice.