Damascus – The Syrian government announced today the abolishment of exceptional courts and rulings, signaling a commitment to pursuing transitional justice. Minister of Justice, Mazhar Al-Oweis, affirmed the Ministry’s dedication to upholding human rights within the judicial system.
Al-Oweis stated that the Ministry of Justice has taken significant steps to strengthen human rights principles within the judiciary. These measures include oversight of prisons, the establishment of legal aid offices to safeguard the rights of prisoners, the elimination of exceptional courts and judgments, and progress on transitional justice to ensure the right to fair trials for all.
“The fall of the Assad regime marks the beginning of an era where human rights are paramount,” Al-Oweis said, adding that Syria’s inaugural celebration of International Human Rights Day yesterday underscores this commitment. The event, jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, was held at the Damascus Conference Palace and attended by ministers, ambassadors, UN representatives, and civil society organizations.
President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, in his address during ‘Liberation Day’ celebrations marking the first anniversary of the Assad regime’s collapse, emphasized the state’s commitment to the principles of transitional justice. He pledged to hold accountable all those who violated the law and committed crimes against the Syrian people, while upholding the rights of victims and ensuring justice.
It is worth noting that in April, the Minister of Justice issued a decree forming a specialized judicial committee to review judicial rulings and procedures issued by the former ‘Terrorism Court’. This move is seen as a crucial step towards addressing past injustices and ensuring accountability within the Syrian judicial system.
