Islamabad: Syria's ability to endure another wave of instability is precarious, as highlighted by Najat Rochdi, Deputy Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria, during a Security Council briefing. Rochdi's address to the 15-member council underscored the heightened risks of escalation in a country already grappling with significant internal challenges.
According to EMM, the Security Council's discussions focused on the persistent instability plaguing Syria, with sporadic violent incidents reported across regions like Homs, Hama, and coastal areas. These incidents, including killings, kidnappings, and infringements on individual liberties, have particularly targeted communities such as Alawites, Druze, and women. While these acts are not part of official policy, they signify the challenges faced by Syrian authorities in controlling certain groups.
Despite the unstable security environment, approximately 600,000 Syrians have returned to their homeland over the past six months, predominantly from neighboring countries. The sustainability of these returns depends on factors like housing availability, public services, and economic revitalization. Rochdi welcomed Syria's renewed engagement with international financial institutions like the World Bank and IMF, emphasizing the need for substantial international support to rehabilitate the economy.
Joyce Msuya, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, highlighted the complexities faced by the Syrian population. Although reduced conflict and increased international engagement present new opportunities, three-quarters of the population require immediate humanitarian relief. The country continues to face challenges such as displacement, unexploded ordnance, overwhelmed health systems, and an unprecedented dry spell.
The humanitarian response, as reported by Msuya, provides critical assistance to 2.5 million people each month, despite shrinking funding. She stressed the need for more financial resources to maintain these efforts, noting that some NGOs are forced to scale back activities due to funding shortfalls. This reduction impacts crucial services, including health care and safe spaces for women and girls.
In her address, human rights defender Amneh Khoulani emphasized the significant role of Syrian women in the pursuit of justice and peace. Despite hardships, women have documented violations and provided aid. Khoulani stressed the need for Syria to be rebuilt on principles of democracy, equality, and human rights, with an accelerated justice process being vital for sustainable peace.
During the Security Council discussions, member states highlighted the importance of civilian protection and the need for continued progress in rebuilding and recovery efforts in Syria. The lifting of sanctions and economic recovery were seen as critical to Syria's future, but delegates emphasized that an inclusive political transition remains necessary.
The discussions also addressed the importance of countering violent extremism and the need for independent investigations into recent violent incidents. The representatives called for international cooperation to address these challenges and ensure Syria's stability and security.
Overall, the Security Council's session underscored the urgent need for international support and collaboration to address the multifaceted challenges facing Syria and its people. The path forward requires coordinated efforts to achieve a peaceful and stable future for the nation.