Women Journalists Without Chains (WJWC) expresses profound concern regarding credible reports of widespread human rights violations in Syria, specifically in the coastal governorates, following recent armed confrontations.
WJWC urges all parties involved to adhere strictly to international humanitarian law and prioritize the absolute protection of civilians from all forms of abuse and reprisal.
While acknowledging the Syrian authorities' establishment of an inquiry team, WJWC demands fair, transparent, and independent investigations into all alleged violations, including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, torture, and other forms of ill-treatment. These investigations must meet international standards, with robust independent judicial oversight to ensure impartiality and effectiveness.
Field reports paint a disturbing picture: widespread security operations in the aftermath of attacks on security personnel have resulted in numerous deaths and injuries, alongside the discovery of unidentified bodies. Local sources corroborate these reports, documenting human rights abuses and retaliatory actions, underscoring the urgent need for accountability to prevent impunity.
The Syrian Ministry of Defense's Military Police acknowledged "isolated infractions" and claimed that corrective measures are underway. However, the scale of reported violations necessitates a more comprehensive and transparent response. Human rights principles dictate that maintaining security must not come at the cost of fundamental rights. Accountability must be ensured for all perpetrators of human rights violations, regardless of affiliation, and robust preventative measures implemented.
WJWC emphasizes that the use of force must be strictly proportionate, in accordance with international human rights law, and remain solely within the purview of legitimate state institutions. The Syrian government must take immediate and decisive steps to prevent further retaliatory actions and ensure the safety and protection of all individuals, irrespective of affiliation.
To prevent future violations, WJWC calls for concrete measures, including: the establishment of independent and effective accountability mechanisms; fair and adequate compensation for victims; and a significant strengthening of the rule of law. All parties must unequivocally commit to protecting civilians and preventing their endangerment.
Furthermore, WJWC cautions that inflammatory media narratives risk exacerbating tensions and hindering impartial investigations. Therefore, we call for greater transparency in information dissemination and urge that the inquiry committee be granted unfettered access to all affected areas to conduct a thorough and objective investigation.
In conclusion, WJWC stresses the paramount importance of the Syrian government's full compliance with international human rights standards in addressing this crisis. Accountability for all violations is non-negotiable, and decisive preventative measures must be implemented. The strengthening of human rights and the rule of law remains fundamental to achieving lasting peace, justice, and stability in Syria.