Calling For Restorative Justice in Syria

Since December 8, 2024, Syria stands at a pivotal moment in its history. For the first time in decades, its people have the potential to envision a future free from fear and oppression, as emphasized by the Secretary General of Amnesty International: “The people of Syria […] finally have an opportunity to live free of fear with their rights respected.” This opportunity, however, emerges from the shadows of a brutal regime that subjected Syrians to a horrifying catalogue of human rights violations under the rule of Bashar al-Assad. The regime’s actions have caused untold suffering on an immense scale, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s social, political, and cultural fabric.

This report by the Amman Center for Human Rights Studies seeks to illuminate these grave violations, guided by the commitment to defending and promoting the fundamental rights of individuals. ACHRS has compiled credible and verifiable evidence of serious abuses under Bashar al-Assad’s regime, focusing on critical areas: the right to life, freedom of speech, political participation, academic freedom, women’s rights, and the treatment of ethnic minorities in Syria.

Employing a rigorous legal analysis grounded in international humanitarian law and global conventions, this report aims to provide an authoritative account of the violations committed, while emphasizing the urgent need for justice and accountability. By systematically addressing these core issues, ACHRS hopes to contribute to the broader efforts of redressing decades of systemic abuse and ensuring a future where the rights of all Syrians are protected and upheld.

The following sections outline our findings, providing an in-depth examination of the violations in each domain, followed by a concluding statement that underscores the path forward for justice and reconciliation.

To get access to the report, click here.