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The continuing grave deterioration of the human rights and humanitarian situation in the Syrian Arab Republic : resolution / adopted by the Human Rights Council

The continuing grave deterioration of the human rights and humanitarian situation in the Syrian Arab Republic : resolution / adopted by the Human Rights Council

Condemnation and Observed Violations

  • Continued Grave Deterioration: The Council strongly condemns the continuing catastrophic deterioration of the human rights and humanitarian situation, and the deliberate targeting of civilians in violation of international law.

  • Use of Heavy Weaponry: The resolution deplores the Syrian regime's continued use of heavy weapons and aerial bombardments, including "barrel bombs," resulting in massive civilian casualties and the destruction of infrastructure.

  • Siege and Starvation: It condemns the use of starvation of civilians as a method of combat by besieging residential areas and preventing the access of food and medical supplies.

  • Detention and Enforced Disappearance: The Council deplores the continued arbitrary arrests, torture, and ill-treatment within regime detention centers and demands the disclosure of the fate of those forcibly disappeared.

Demands for the Syrian Authorities

  • Cessation of Indiscriminate Attacks: It demands that the Syrian authorities immediately end all attacks against civilians and comply with Security Council Resolution 2139, which calls for lifting the siege on populated areas.

  • Facilitating Aid: The Council stresses the need to grant humanitarian organizations and UN agencies full, safe, and unhindered access through the most direct routes, including cross-border operations.

  • International Cooperation: The Council regrets the continued non-cooperation of the Syrian authorities with the Independent International Commission of Inquiry and renews its call to grant it full access to all Syrian territories.

Accountability and Political Solution

  • Ending Impunity: The resolution emphasizes the need to ensure accountability for crimes that may amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity and to preserve evidence for future criminal prosecutions.

  • Support for the Geneva Communiqué: The Council affirms that the only solution to the crisis is a political one based on the full implementation of the Geneva Communiqué of June 30, 2012, including the formation of a transitional governing body.

  • Support for Neighboring Countries: It acknowledges the immense burden on neighboring host countries and urges the international community to fulfill its financial pledges and expand the scope of assistance.

Voting Results

  • Adoption: The resolution was adopted by a recorded vote of 32 in favor, 4 against (China, Cuba, Russian Federation, and Venezuela), and 11 abstentions.