Syrian National Dialogue Conference Concludes with Formation of Constitutional Committee

By Kardo Roj

DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – The closing statement of the Syrian National Dialogue Conference announced the formation of a constitutional committee tasked with drafting a permanent constitution for the country. The document aims to balance state powers, uphold justice, freedom, and equality, and establish a legal and institutional framework for governance.

The conference, held in Damascus, brought together political representatives, civil society groups, and community leaders to discuss Syria’s future. Delegates emphasized national reconciliation and the rejection of violence, calling for peaceful coexistence among all components of Syrian society.

The closing statement outlined several critical steps for Syria’s political transition, including:

• Formation of a Constitutional Committee: The newly established body will draft a permanent constitution that ensures a balance between executive, legislative, and judicial authorities.
• Creation of a Temporary Legislative Council: The conference urged the swift establishment of a transitional legislative body to oversee governance and representation based on competence and fair inclusion.
• Commitment to Human Rights and Inclusion: Delegates stressed the need to protect human rights, empower women in all sectors, safeguard children’s rights, and integrate people with special needs into society.
• National Unity and Anti-Discrimination Measures: The conference underscored the importance of rejecting sectarianism and ensuring equal opportunities for all Syrians, free from ethnic or religious quotas.
• Transitional Justice and Legal Reform: The statement called for accountability for war crimes and human rights violations, judicial reforms, and the adoption of legal frameworks to restore justice and rights.
• Political and Economic Development: Participants advocated for inclusive political participation and economic recovery strategies, including incentives for investment, revitalization of agriculture and industry, and policies to promote sustainable growth.

A significant aspect of the final statement was the call to lift international sanctions on Syria, arguing that, after the collapse of the former regime, these measures disproportionately affect civilians, hinder reconstruction efforts, and delay the return of refugees and displaced persons.

The statement also condemned Israel’s military incursions into Syrian territory, labeling them a “blatant violation of Syria’s sovereignty.” It demanded an immediate and unconditional withdrawal of Israeli forces and urged the international community to take responsibility in pressuring Israel to halt its interventions. Additionally, the statement criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent comments on southern Syria as provocative and destabilizing.

While the resolutions from the conference signal a step toward political stabilization, significant challenges remain. The effectiveness of the constitutional committee and the transitional legislative council will depend on broad political buy-in and the ability to implement reforms in a deeply fractured society.

Additionally, questions persist about the role of international actors in Syria’s future. The lifting of sanctions, reconstruction funding, and the stance of regional powers will all shape the post-conflict landscape.

Observers note that while the conference provided a framework for political transition, its success will be determined by the extent to which different factions commit to reconciliation and governance reforms. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the proposed constitutional process gains traction or faces obstacles from competing political interests.