WCA calls on UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria to Consider Underreported Aramean Issue in Next Report
On Tuesday 26 June 2018, WCA once again participated in the UN Human Rights Council session on Syria. WCA's Director for UN Affairs, Ms. Sarah Bakir, delivered the below statement (text and video), emphasizing underreported issues that require the Commission of Inquiry's attention.
Thank you, Mr. President.
While being thankful for the efforts of the Commission of Inquiry, we present the following four points to be considered in its upcoming report.
First, the armed YPG forces of the Kurdish PYD still occupy part of Northeast Syria. In the name of creating a so-called democratic and pluralistic society, they covertly cleanse this region from its natives in their aim for Kurdish autonomy. In the case of the vulnerable Arameans, we have repeatedly testified about the YPG’s human rights abuses, which include intimidation, threats, confiscation of property, expropriation of land and forced conscriptions of youths.
Secondly, rebel forces from Eastern Ghouta did not only shell Syrian government positions, but also the defenseless Christian quarters of Damascus. It should be reported and condemned that they have deliberately injured and killed a number of innocent civilians, including Arameans.
Thirdly, the fighting has diminished in many parts of Syria. Now that militant groups such as ISIS have been virtually defeated, it is time to support the local population, above all vulnerable indigenous groups such as the Arameans. Particularly in historical places like Maaloula, Aleppo, Sadad, Homs and Raqqa, they need help in rebuilding their homes, businesses and lives. If we don’t help them build a safe and sustainable future at home, the influx of refugees will simply continue, if not exacerbate.
Fourthly, we implore you to help restore Syria’s ethnic, religious and linguistic mosaic. Genuine peace, security and reconciliation are necessary to help people return home to coexist harmoniously in Syria’s damaged pluralistic society. We believe that this will follow by reinforcing the Syria peace talks in Geneva, Astana and Sochi.
Finally, we call on the Commission of Inquiry on Syria and the member states of the Human Rights Council to diligently take heed of these significant underreported points.
Thank you, Mr. President.
Download the statement in PDF here.
