UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen called for an immediate end to hostilities and urged all parties to protect civilians in accordance with international law.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres. (file)
Standing with the people: UN chief
UN Secretary-General António Guterres also underscored the urgent need for “bold and decisive measures” to ensure safety, dignity and inclusion for all Syrians.
“Since 8 December [2024], there is renewed hope that Syrians can chart a different course and the chance to rebuild, reconcile, and create a nation where all can live peacefully and in dignity,” he said in a statement on Thursday.
“Now is the time for action. Bold and decisive measures are urgently needed to ensure that every Syrian – regardless of ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, or gender – can live in safety, dignity, and without fear.”
He reiterated UN’s commitment to supporting an inclusive political transition that ensures accountability, fosters national healing, and lays the foundation for Syria’s long-term recovery and reintegration into the international community.
“We stand with the Syrian people towards the promise of a better Syria – for all Syrians. Together, we must ensure that Syria emerges from the shadows of war into a future defined by dignity and the rule of law – where all voices are heard, and no community is left behind,” Mr. Guterres said.
Protect all civilians: Security Council
Also on Friday, the UN Security Council called for the implementation of an inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process, facilitated by the United Nations and based on the key principles listed in resolution 2254 (2015).
“This includes safeguarding the rights of all Syrians, regardless of ethnicity and religion. This political process should meet the legitimate aspirations of all Syrians, protect all of them and enable them to peacefully, independently and democratically determine their futures,” read a statement by the President of the Security Council.
The Council also condemned the widespread violence in Latakia and Tartus provinces since 6 March, including mass killings of civilians among the Alawite community, underlining the urgency of inclusive, transparent justice and reconciliation in Syria.
Presidential statements are issued by the President of the Security Council on behalf of its members. The statements are adopted at a formal meeting and issued as an official document of the UN’s primary body on international peace and security.