Ankara: The UN special rapporteur has proposed establishing a "hybrid court" to launch an accountability process against Syria's ousted regime leader Bashar al-Assad for human rights violations and war crimes. "My preference would be a hybrid court that the Syrian authorities would embrace, one that includes both national and international actors," said Alice Jill Edwards, a UN special rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.
According to Anadolu Agency, Edwards stated that the establishment of such a court would be the most effective way to put Syria on the path to justice. She emphasized the importance of truth-telling, accountability, justice, compensation, and rehabilitation for victims and survivors. Edwards highlighted that the fall of the Assad regime has led to significant changes in Syria, and discussions on reform are underway.
Edwards underscored the necessity of involving victims and survivors in the reform process, emphasizing the role of individuals from various walks of life, including those advocating for torture victims. She confirmed ongoing proceedings at the International Court of Justice and mentioned submitting a comprehensive dossier containing 34 allegations of torture affecting thousands of people.
She pointed out the atrocities committed in Syria over the past decade and the destruction of evidence, possibly by the Assad regime. The preservation of evidence is crucial, and Edwards stressed the importance of prioritizing missing persons and engaging international actors in discussions about a democratic Syria to ensure justice and accountability.
Edwards highlighted the role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the Prosecutor General in investigating cases on the ground. She stressed that high-level procedures and investigations by the top UN court should hold the highest echelons accountable for their crimes. She reiterated the necessity of a Syria-led process, ensuring inclusivity in ongoing discussions.
Assad, Syria's leader for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia on Dec. 8, ending the Baath Party's regime, which had been in power since 1963. Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led anti-regime forces to oust Assad, was declared president for a transitional period on Jan. 29.