EU backs inclusive transition in Syria, urges accountability for atrocities
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The European Union remains committed to supporting a peaceful and inclusive transition in Syria that ensures equal participation for all Syrians and protects their human rights without discrimination, the EU on Tuesday said.
The EU said the formation of the People’s Assembly and Constitutional Court, along with the introduction of Kurdish-language teaching into the national curriculum, represent milestones in Syria’s transition.
It said adopting a new Constitution and establishing an inclusive political system based on the rule of law, political pluralism and transparent elections will be essential to the success of the transition.
The EU also pledged to support Syrian and international efforts to ensure accountability for atrocities committed in Syria and said a comprehensive transitional justice process should be Syrian-led and Syrian-owned, with international support.
It called for stronger cooperation between Syria’s transitional government and UN bodies, including the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism, the Independent Institution on Missing Persons and the Commission of Inquiry.
The EU also stressed the need to implement recommendations issued by the UN bodies and called for human rights to be respected and protected for all Syrians regardless of gender, ethnicity or religion.
It urged all actors to uphold international law, including international humanitarian and human rights law, and to respect Syria’s unity, independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.