Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen (on screen) briefed the UN Security Council. Syria: The situation is grave, but the crisis can be overcome Peace and Security
Numerous clashes in north-east and north-west Syria, airstrikes and drone strikes, artillery and rocket attacks – August was marked for the residents of Syria by another outbreak of violence, and ISIS militants have also stepped up their operations. This was stated by the Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen to members of the UN Security Council.
Human Rights
As for the human rights situation, according to the UN representative, arbitrary detentions and arrests, torture in places of detention and disappearances continue in all areas of Syria. “Such repressive practices must end. I continue to call for the unconditional release, including as a matter of priority for women and children, as well as the elderly or sick,” he stressed.
Places of detention
Problems also remain in camps and detention facilities in north-east Syria. “I reiterate my call on Member States and relevant authorities to significantly increase their efforts to repatriate [their citizens] from Al-Hol and other places of detention,” Pedersen said.
Humanitarian situation
He described the humanitarian situation in Syria as “dire,” noting the lack of funding, “economic catastrophe” and the negative impact of sanctions. “The minimum wage in Syria covers only 11 percent of the basic needs of the average household,” the Special Envoy said, citing the World Food Programme.
Displaced Persons and Refugees
The UN is concerned about the situation of Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons. “Syrians must be protected wherever they are, including in host countries. Rhetoric and actions against refugees must stop,” Pedersen warned.
A Grim Picture
In conclusion, he painted a grim picture of today’s Syria: de facto division, military conflict, active involvement of external forces, presence of terrorist groups, countless human rights violations, humanitarian crisis, economic collapse, degradation of institutions, displacement, detention and disappearances. None of these problems, the rapporteur is convinced, are separate from the deep political differences among Syrians and towards Syria in the international arena.
The Political Process and the Way Forward
He called for an intensification of the political process, based on the relevant UN Security Council resolutions. “We have no illusions that this is easy. But it would be a mistake to conclude that this is impossible, that the conflict can only be managed, not resolved. There are clear and realistic ideas on the negotiating table about what all parties could do to achieve progress. […] There is a way forward,” the UN envoy stressed.
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