Human Rights Council
56th session of the Human Rights Council
18 June to 12 July 2024
Statement delivered during the Interactive Dialogueon the oral report of the Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic
Geneva, 3 July 2024
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mr. President,
 
We commend the important work of the Commission of Inquiry and the essential role it plays in ensuring accountability and justice for victims.
 
We have entered the 14th year of conflict in Syria, with serious violations of international humanitarian law committed by all parties, in particular by Syrian government forces and its allies.
 
As in all conflicts, unfortunately, it is the civilian population who pays the consequences.
 
The CoI has constantly informed us of systematic abuses of HR such as targeted assassinations, arbitrary arrests and detentions; Rape, torture and deaths in custody persist particularly in areas under the control of pro-government forces. These human rights violations are unacceptable and we condemn them.
 
In addition, the CoI particularly highlighted its concern about missing persons, including those subject to enforced disappearance. We call on Syria to clarify the fate of the missing, as we believe that accountability is an essential condition in peacebuilding processes and the establishment of the rule of law.
 
To this end, we support the creation of the Independent Institution for Missing Persons in Syria and encourage States to support its mandate.
 
Furthermore, the CoI stressed that the situation of displaced people remains extremely worrying. These people need humanitarian support. Three out of four people inside the country now need humanitarian assistance. Hence the absolute need for continuity of cross-border humanitarian aid.
 
In conclusion, Albania calls on all parties to work towards an authentic transition, and to commit to a credible and lasting political solution, in accordance with all dimensions of Security Council Resolution 2254.
 
Thank you.