STORY
The United Kingdom has hailed recent strides in Syria’s political transition following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, while emphasising the ongoing need for justice and accountability.
Addressing the United Nations General Assembly, Lord Collins of Highbury, Minister for Africa and the UN, commended the formation of a new Syrian government and its commitment to holding free and fair elections. He also acknowledged the government’s support for a Human Rights Council resolution and its pledges to establish national committees focused on transitional justice, missing persons, and chemical weapons.
However, Lord Collins cautioned that significant challenges remain, particularly in addressing the legacy of 14 years of conflict and human rights abuses. He highlighted the importance of the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) in documenting evidence for future prosecutions and noted the UK’s continued support, including an additional $940,000 in funding this year.
“We remain committed to pursuing accountability for victims, survivors and families in Syria” Lord Collins stated, reaffirming the UK’s dedication to supporting Syrian-led transitional justice processes.