Official announcements from the United Nations or relevant international bodies

UN Rights Chief Makes First Syria Visit, Urges Transitional Justice and Lifting of Sanctions

Jan 15, 2025, 11:38 AM

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk arrived in Damascus on Tuesday for the first-ever visit to Syria by the global body's rights chief. His three-day trip, which runs from January 14 to 16, 2025, includes stops in Syria and Lebanon. Turk is scheduled to meet with senior Syrian officials, representatives of civil society organizations, diplomats, and UN entities. He visited the Sednaya prison, emphasizing that "we must not allow such atrocities to happen again." In a press conference held in Damascus, Turk highlighted the importance of transitional justice for Syria's future, stating that it is "crucial to provide recognition to victims, enhance trust in state institutions, and reinforce respect for the rule of law." He also urged the urgent reconsideration of international sanctions on Syria, noting that Syrians "need all possible help to rebuild their country" and that "reconsidering sanctions is necessary to address the tremendous challenges and risks" facing the nation.