A flame of hope burns brightly in Syria today, but if it’s not carefully managed by both Syrians and the global community, it risks being extinguished, UN Secretary-General António Guterres cautioned on Thursday.
Speaking to reporters in New York, Guterres said there is “a serious risk that progress could unravel” without a “credible, inclusive, and peaceful” political transition that is Syrian-led and on behalf of all its people.
“The citizens of Syria stand at a moment of opportunity and a moment of history. That chance cannot be missed,” he said.
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Guterres stated that the UN supports the Syrian people, recognizing their long-standing desire for peaceful change, which started with the mass protests in 2011.
“But nothing is guaranteed,” he added, urging the full integration of all communities into a new Syria.
Guterres also emphasized the necessity of respecting the rights of girls and women, insisting the process be guided by the principles of Security Council resolution 2254. “We are focused on expediting just such a process,” he said.
Meanwhile, Syria is still in the grip of a humanitarian crisis, with the United Nations and its partners mobilizing to assess needs and respond to “rapidly shifting” conditions.
The UN Chief called for adequate funding for recovery and humanitarian aid, stressing the current shortfall. “I make a strong appeal to the global community to show the generosity the Syrian people deserve in this moment – and to immensely support the humanitarian response.”
Guterres also announced the appointment of Karla Quintana of Mexico to lead the General Assembly-mandated Independent Institution on Missing Persons in Syria, offering support to those living with the anguish of uncertainty over missing loved ones.
He called for global mechanisms to be equipped with the necessary tools to advance the protection of human rights and accountability for the crimes of the Assad regime.