HRW warns of power centralization in Syria’s constitutional declaration
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Human Rights Watch (HRW) criticized on Tuesday Syria’s newly signed constitutional declaration, warning that it consolidates power in the hands of the executive branch and threatens judicial independence.
The declaration, signed on March 13 by Syria’s Transitional President Ahmed al-Sharaa, grants the presidency extensive authority, including the power to appoint judicial and legislative officials without checks or oversight, HRW stated.
These broad powers raise serious concerns about the rule of law and human rights protections unless clear safeguards are put in place, the organization added.
“Without stronger safeguards and independent oversight, this declaration risks consolidating executive control at the expense of fundamental freedoms at a crucial time for Syria’s future,” said Adam Coogle, deputy Middle East director at Human Rights Watch.
“Given the rampant unchecked authority of the previous government, it is paramount for Syria to establish a system that holds everyone accountable for their abuses and crimes.”
HRW urged Syrian authorities to revise the declaration to reinforce judicial independence and legislative oversight, arguing that such measures are crucial to ensuring accountability and protecting human rights in Syria’s transition.
“Syria’s transition should be a pathway to a rights-respecting democracy – not a pretext for entrenching authoritarian control,” Coogle said.