Human Rights Group Calls for Review of the Mandate of Syria’s Transitional Justice Authority

The organization “Syrians for Truth and Justice” on Wednesday urged the Syrian Transitional Government to expand the mandate of the National Transitional Justice Authority to cover all violations committed in Syria, regardless of which parties were responsible.

In a report released today, the organization stated that “the expanded mandate should include both past and ongoing violations, in line with the principle of non-impunity.”

The report noted that the constitutional declaration issued in March 2025 and Presidential Decree No. (20) provided for the establishment of an independent transitional justice body, but did not address violations that occurred after the fall of the previous regime or those committed by non-state actors.

The organization added that “the current approach makes the concept of transitional justice resemble a selective political tool,” emphasizing the need to adopt a comprehensive definition of victims that ensures their participation and representation in all stages of the process.

It also recommended strengthening the independence of the authority through transparent appointment mechanisms, barring the participation of anyone involved in serious violations, and involving civil society organizations and victims’ associations in monitoring its work.

The report further stressed the importance of cooperation between the National Authority and relevant international mechanisms, such as the UN Commission of Inquiry and the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM). It also called on the Syrian government to accede to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, to ensure that Syria’s transitional justice process aligns with international standards.