Urgent Steps Needed for Inclusive Transformation in Syria, says UN Envoy

Strategic Insights -

At a critical moment for Syria, the UN Secretary-General's Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, Najat Roshdi, has stressed the need for urgent steps to ensure an inclusive transformation in the country, especially regarding the political participation of women and members of ethnic and religious minorities. Despite promises from President Ahmed al-Shara, women remain underrepresented in the Transitional People's Assembly, with only six women among 119 elected members. Roshdi emphasized the crucial role Syrian women play in the country's future and urged for equal participation in political transformation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 is an opportunity to reaffirm women's right to participate in peacebuilding in Syria.
  • Despite President Ahmed al-Shara's promises, women remain underrepresented in the Transitional People's Assembly, with only six women among 119 elected members.
  • The election process was met with criticism regarding opaque procedures, weak civil society engagement, and limited representation of ethnic and religious communities.
  • Roshdi called for a more inclusive approach in future elections, emphasizing the importance of representation from various ethnic and religious groups.
  • The Deputy Special Envoy emphasized that without large-scale international support, the transition process in Syria is doomed to failure.
  • Roshdi welcomed the US Senate's decision to repeal the Caesar Act, which aimed to economically isolate the Assad regime.
  • Roshdi condemned ongoing attempts at external interference, including Israeli operations in the south of the country, and called for the 1974 disengagement agreement to be respected.
  • The UN remains committed to supporting the Syrian people and the country's new authorities in building a secure, inclusive, and prosperous future.

Statistics:

  • 119: The number of elected members in the Transitional People's Assembly.
  • 6: The number of women among 119 elected members of the Transitional People's Assembly.
  • October 5: Date of the elections in Syria, which were generally peaceful despite isolated incidents.
  • 25: Anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325.

Sources:

  • United Nations -- Speech by UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, Najat Roshdi, at a Security Council meeting.