People celebrate on the streets of Damascus, December 2024. On the anniversary of the fall of the Assad regime, the UN chief called for support for the future of Syria Human rights
On the first anniversary of the collapse of the Bashar al-Assad regime, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for tribute “to the resilience and courage of the Syrian people, who, despite untold sacrifices, have never given up hope.”
He said the past year had shown that “meaningful change is possible when Syrians are empowered and supported to lead the transition themselves.”
The Path to Recovery and Reconciliation
Guterres stressed that the country faces a challenge that goes far beyond the political transition.
“This is a chance to rebuild broken communities and heal deep rifts. This is an opportunity to build a state where every Syrian – regardless of ethnicity, religion, gender or political affiliation – can live in conditions of security, equality and dignity,” he said.
Since December last year, the UN has been working with Syrian authorities and civil society to stabilize the situation on the ground and create the foundations for inclusive governance. Particular attention is paid to restoring vital public services, expanding humanitarian access and facilitating the voluntary and safe return of refugees and internally displaced persons.
According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, more than one million refugees have returned home since December 2024, and approximately two million internally displaced persons have been able to settle in their homes communities.
The first steps of transitional justice
Transitional justice mechanisms also began to take shape in the country. Syrian women are playing an increasingly prominent role in the creation of new institutions, striving to achieve equal participation in socio-political processes.
Despite ongoing challenges, the past year has strengthened local government and empowered civil society.
The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria has welcomed the start of dialogue on human rights. The Commission praised the establishment of national bodies for transitional justice and missing persons, but warned that progress is fragile given ongoing instability and sporadic violence in some areas. Human rights defenders also recalled that the questions of thousands of families whose loved ones have disappeared remain unanswered, and stressed that ending cycles of retaliation is essential for sustainable peace.
Call for international support
The Secretary-General said the continued success of the transition depends on international solidarity.
He called on the international community to “strongly support the Syrian-led transition process,” noting the need for sustainable funding for humanitarian programs, eliminating barriers to recovery and stimulating economic development.
Guterres concluded by saying: “On this anniversary, we are united in our goal to lay the foundation for peace and prosperity and reaffirm our commitment to a free, sovereign, united and inclusive Syria.”