The International Center for Transitional Justice is outraged by the recent massacre in Syria, where over 1,000 civilians were brutally killed in yet another wave of violence. This appalling crime underscores the urgent and undeniable need to protect civilians and provide justice and accountability.
ICTJ stands unequivocally with all victims, regardless of who the perpetrators are. Civilians must always be protected in any conflict. The Syrian transitional government has a fundamental and nonnegotiable duty to protect all people under its jurisdiction and must act immediately to stop the bloodshed, prevent further atrocities, and uphold human rights. Its response must include a thorough, independent, and professional investigation of the crimes committed aimed at holding perpetrators accountable and meaningful reparations for victims.
Moreover, immediate humanitarian assistance must be provided to survivors and affected communities. Urgent and unhindered access to medical care, shelter, and support services is essential to addressing the devastation inflicted on innocent civilians.
The tragic events that unfolded over the weekend underscore the importance and urgency of a comprehensive transitional justice strategy in Syria that can bring an end to the entrenched impunity that has fueled years of violence and set in motion processes of accountability, acknowledgment, reparation, and reform that help build an inclusive society where everyone’s rights are recognized as equal and are protected.
The protection of civilians, the pursuit of truth and accountability, reparations for victims, and institutional reforms that prevent further violence must take priority. ICTJ remains resolute in its commitment to supporting victims, civil society, and all efforts to achieve justice and sustainable and lasting peace in Syria.
The violence must stop. The time for justice is now.
