Netherlands on Syria’s Future: Importance of Religious Freedom and Protection of Minorities
DAMASCUS, SYRIA (North Press) – Dutch Foreign Minister Casper Veldkamp stressed the critical need to respect religious freedom and protect minority groups in Syria, following the announcement of the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
On Sunday, after 12 days of intense fighting, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied factions declared victory over Assad’s forces, marking the end of over five decades of Assad family rule. The fall of Assad has been hailed by many as a pivotal moment for Syria, but it also raises concerns about the future of Syria’s diverse population, which includes numerous religious and ethnic minorities.
In a tweet on Sunday, Veldkamp acknowledged the historic nature of the event, stating, “The Assad regime has fallen after 54 years. This is a historic turning point for #Syria and countless Syrians who suffered under Assad’s brutal regime. A peaceful political transition in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254 is now of utmost importance.”
The Dutch Foreign Minister emphasized that Syria’s future must prioritize the protection of religious freedoms and ensure the safety of its various minority groups, including Christians and Kurds. He added in the same tweet, “It is also crucial that freedom of religion is respected and that minority groups in Syria, such as Christians and Kurds, remain free and safe and are given a role in the political transition.”
Syria has been home to a rich tapestry of religions, ethnicities, and cultures, with significant populations of Christians, Kurds, Druze, Alawites, and other groups. These communities have lived together for centuries, but the ongoing conflict has put many at risk, especially as sectarian tensions have escalated.
The Dutch government’s position reflects concerns shared by many international actors, who fear that a post-Assad Syria could either descend into chaos or be dominated by one group at the expense of others. Veldkamp’s call for a peaceful and inclusive political transition aligns with international efforts to ensure a political solution that involves all Syrians, regardless of their sectarian or ethnic background.
For years, the international community has supported the idea of a political transition in Syria, as outlined by UN Security Council Resolution 2254. This resolution calls for a ceasefire, a new constitution, and free elections to ensure that the Syrian people can decide their future without the coercion of a despotic regime.
The future of Syria remains uncertain, but the Dutch Foreign Minister’s comments highlight the importance of a fair political transition that safeguards the rights of all Syrians, particularly the country’s diverse minority communities.
As Syria embarks on a new chapter in its long and painful journey, the international community will be closely monitoring the developments to ensure that the rights and freedoms of all Syrians, regardless of their background, are respected and protected.