Guterres: The Bright Future Syrians Deserve Is Now at Stake
ARK News.. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the future Syrians deserve is now at stake, emphasizing the urgent need for an inclusive political transition that ensures accountability and lays the foundation for Syria’s recovery.
In a statement marking the 14th anniversary of the Syrian revolution, Guterres described the occasion as “a remembrance of the Syrian people rising up in peaceful demonstrations to demand their rights and freedoms, only to be met with brutal repression.”
He stated that “what began as a call for peaceful change has turned into one of the world’s most devastating conflicts, with an immeasurable human toll.” Guterres praised the resilience of the Syrian people, noting that “they have never wavered in their courageous calls for freedom, dignity, and a just future.”
The UN chief highlighted that since December 8, 2024, “there has been renewed hope that Syrians can chart a different course, rebuild, reconcile, and establish a homeland where everyone can live in peace and dignity.” However, he also expressed concern that “this bright future, which Syrians so desperately deserve, is now at risk.”
Guterres stressed that “nothing justifies the killing of civilians, as recent reports have indicated.” He called for “an immediate end to all violence and for independent, impartial, and credible investigations into violations, ensuring those responsible are held accountable.”
He also noted that the Syrian government has “repeatedly expressed its commitment to building a new Syria for all its people, based on inclusive and credible foundations.” He added, “The time has come for action.”
The Secretary-General underscored the urgent need for “bold and decisive measures to ensure that all Syrians—regardless of ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, or gender—can live safely, with dignity, and free from fear.”
Guterres reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to working “alongside the Syrian people to support an inclusive political transition, ensure accountability, promote national recovery, and lay the groundwork for Syria’s long-term rehabilitation and reintegration into the international community.”
He concluded by stating that the UN “stands with the Syrian people in realizing the promise of a better future for all.” He added, “Together, we must ensure that Syria emerges from the shadows of war into a future rooted in dignity and the rule of law, where all voices are heard, and no one is excluded.”
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