NCF UN Oral Statement UNHRC63 Session

Next Century Foundation’s Research Officer Mahmoud Shaaban addresses the United Nations Human Rights Council on deaths in detention and the continued use of arbitrary detention in Syria, highlighting the case of Mohammed Ghamira and calling for clear arrest and detention safeguards alongside stronger accountability during Syria’s transition.

Transcription:

The Next Century Foundation is concerned about deaths in detention and the continued use of arbitrary detention in the Syrian Arab Republic.

The recent death of Mohammed Ghamira, a 29-year-old Syrian who died in hospital after being detained at the al- Haffa police station has raised serious concerns about the safety of detainees. The Syrian government responded to Mohammed Ghamira’s death by opening an investigation into the case, and taking actions against those involved. This response is an important step.

However, since the fall of the Assad government, cases of arbitrary detention and abuse in custody have continued. These cases raise important questions about whether enough safeguards are in place to protect people in detention.

We encourage Syria to adopt clear rules for arrest and detention. Every person should know the reason for their detention, have access to legal representation, and be able to challenge their detention before an independent judicial authority.

We also encourage stronger accountability. When allegations of abuse occur, they should be investigated effectively. A clear legal process is essential to prevent such cases from happening again.

Finally, we urge the international community to support Syria’s transition by promoting the rule of law, human rights, and efforts to prevent any future violations.

Thank you.