Accountability in Syria: Achieving Transitional Justice in a Postconflict Society

Gross violations of International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Laws have been committed in Syria. Launching transitional justice processes will signal to the victims that those responsible for committing these crimes will be brought to reparation and that the time of impunity is over. This book discusses the available options of justice and how accountability will be achieved through international systems and a new hybrid court system.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 142 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

In Syria, severe violations of International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Laws have occurred. Initiating transitional justice processes after a complete halt to violence is crucial in conveying to the victims that those responsible for these heinous acts will face accountability and that the era of impunity has ended. This book explores various avenues for justice and outlines the mechanisms through which accountability will be ensured through international systems and a novel hybrid court system.

The conflict in Syria has resulted in widespread human rights violations and humanitarian law breaches. The international community must take decisive action to address these violations and ensure justice for the victims. One important step is to establish transitional justice processes that will hold those responsible for these crimes accountable.

Transitional justice involves a range of mechanisms, including truth and reconciliation commissions, criminal investigations, and trials. These processes aim to provide closure to the victims and promote healing in the society. They also serve as a deterrent against future violations of human rights and humanitarian law.

To ensure the success of transitional justice processes, it is essential to have a robust legal framework in place. This framework should include international human rights laws and international humanitarian law as the basis for accountability. It should also provide for the protection of witnesses and victims and ensure that the proceedings are fair and transparent.

In addition to legal mechanisms, social and economic rehabilitation programs should also be implemented to support the victims of the conflict. This includes providing access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities, as well as assistance with housing and other basic needs.

The international community must also work to promote human rights and humanitarian law in Syria and around the world. This includes providing training and support to law enforcement and judicial institutions, as well as promoting awareness and education about these laws.

Finally, the international community must hold those responsible for human rights violations and humanitarian law breaches accountable. This includes imposing sanctions and other measures to prevent future violations and providing support to victims and their families.

In conclusion, the conflict in Syria has resulted in severe human rights violations and humanitarian law breaches. To address these violations and ensure justice for the victims, transitional justice processes must be established, and a robust legal framework must be in place. Social and economic rehabilitation programs should also be implemented to support the victims, and the international community must work to promote human rights and humanitarian law in Syria and around the world. Only through collective action can we hope to achieve a more just and peaceful world.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781498511919