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Human Rights Council resolution on human rights cases that require the Council's attention in Syria - April 2013

Situation of human rights in the Syrian Arab Republic : resolution / adopted by the Human Rights Council

 

English Translation of the Summary

1. Condemnations and Violations:

  • Condemnation of Systematic Violence: The Council strongly condemns the continued widespread and systematic violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms by the Syrian authorities and the "Shabbiha" militias.

  • Nature of Crimes: Violations included massacres, aerial bombardments, the use of ballistic missiles and heavy weapons against residential areas, arbitrary executions, torture, and enforced disappearances.

  • Forced Displacement: The Council expressed deep concern over the internal displacement of more than two million Syrians and the flight of over one million refugees to neighboring countries.

2. Demands for the Syrian Authorities:

  • Cessation of Attacks: Demanding an immediate end to all attacks against civilians and full compliance with international law obligations.

  • Release of Detainees: The immediate release of all persons arbitrarily detained and the publication of a list of all detention facilities.

  • Humanitarian Access: Ensuring safe, unhindered, and immediate access for humanitarian and medical relief to all affected areas.

3. Accountability and Investigation:

  • Extension of the Mandate: The Council decided to extend the mandate of the independent international commission of inquiry to continue documenting violations and updating casualty figures.

  • Criminal Accountability: It emphasized the need to bring those responsible for violations (which may amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity) to justice at national or international levels.

4. Voting Results:

  • Adoption: The resolution was adopted by a recorded vote of 41 in favor, 1 against (Venezuela), and 5 abstentions.