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Human Rights Council resolution on the continuing serious deterioration of the human rights and humanitarian situation in Syria - July 2015

The grave and deteriorating human rights and humanitarian situation in the Syrian Arab Republic : resolution / adopted by the Human Rights Council on 2 July 2015

Summary: Resolution 29/16

1. Condemnations and Violations:

  • Grave Deterioration: The Council condemns the continued and gross violations of human rights and international humanitarian law by the Syrian authorities and their affiliated militias.

  • Indiscriminate Attacks: It deplores the use of barrel bombs, aerial bombardment, and heavy weaponry against civilians, as well as the systematic use of torture and sexual violence.

  • ISIS and Terrorist Groups: The resolution strongly condemns the abuses committed by ISIS, Al-Nusra Front, and other terrorist groups, including executions and the destruction of cultural heritage.

  • "Caesar" Evidence: Expresses deep concern over the reports of torture and executions of detainees based on the "Caesar" evidence.

2. Demands and Humanitarian Access:

  • Protection of Civilians: Demands that the Syrian authorities immediately cease all attacks against civilians and fulfill their responsibility to protect the population.

  • Humanitarian Aid: Calls for immediate, safe, and unhindered access for humanitarian aid to all areas, especially besieged locations, in accordance with Security Council resolutions.

  • Release of Detainees: Demands the release of all arbitrarily detained persons and the disclosure of the fate of the missing.

3. Accountability and Political Solution:

  • Ending Impunity: Stresses the need to hold those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity accountable.

  • Political Transition: Reaffirms that the only solution is a political transition based on the Geneva Communiqué.

4. Voting Results:

  • Adoption: Adopted by 29 votes in favor, 6 against, and 12 abstentions.