Today marks a watershed moment in Syria’s history—a nation that has endured nearly 14 years of relentless suffering and unspeakable loss. The United Nations Special Envoy for Syria extends once again his deepest solidarity to all who have borne the weight of death, destruction, detention, and untold human rights violations. This dark chapter has left deep scars, but today we look forward with cautious hope to the opening of a new one—one of peace, reconciliation, dignity, and inclusion for all Syrians.
To those displaced, this moment renews the vision of returning to homes once lost. To families separated by war, the beginnings of reunions bring hope. To those unjustly detained, and the families of the detained and the missing, the opening of prison doors reminds us of justice’s eventual reach.
The challenges ahead remain immense and we hear those who are anxious and apprehensive. Yet this is a moment to embrace the possibility of renewal. The resilience of the Syrian people offers a path toward a united and peaceful Syria.
To this end, the Special Envoy underscores the clear desire expressed by millions of Syrians that stable and inclusive transitional arrangements are put in place, that the Syrian institutions continue to function, and that the Syrian people are enabled to begin to chart the path to meeting the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people and restore a unified Syria, with its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, in a way that can receive the support and engagement of the entire international community.
Mr. Pedersen has heard from many Syrians, including armed groups and civil society, both women and men, and has noted public statements underlining a will to protect their fellow Syrians and state institutions going forward against retribution and harm.
Let me echo these statements and issue a clear and unambiguous appeal at this hour that all armed actors on the ground maintain good conduct, law and order, protect civilians and preserve public institutions.
Mr. Pedersen urges all Syrians to prioritize dialogue, unity, and respect for international humanitarian law and human rights as they seek to rebuild their society. He stresses that there must be a collective effort to secure peace and dignity for all. The Special Envoy stands ready to support the Syrian people in their journey toward a stable and inclusive future decided and shaped by the Syrian people.
Let us honor the memory of those who have suffered for decades by committing to help Syrians build a Syria where justice, freedom, and prosperity are shared realities. Let us stand in solidarity with Syrians to help them ensure that this new chapter is one of hope and opportunity for every Syrian.