Syria has a real chance to ‘go from darkness to light’

That’s according to Najat Rochdi, United Nations Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, who is in Damascus meeting with several members of the transitional government to ensure all Syrians can participate in the country’s future, which is struggling to cope with an acute humanitarian crisis and is faltering. economy.

In an exclusive interview with UN News, Ms. Rochdi spoke Friday with Reem Abaza. The interview has been edited for clarity and length.

United Nations News: This is your second visit to Syria since the fall of the Assad regime. Who did you meet this time and what was your main impression?

Najat Rochdi: I never thought I could witness something like this in my life. It is extraordinary to see this level of joy, hope and excitement.

But this also comes with a lot of expectations. This is the time to rebuild all that has been destroyed, including rebuilding the dignity of all Syrians. We need to ensure that there is a seat for everyone, in terms of fair representation of women and men of all Syrians, regardless of religious, ethnic, cultural or geographical background. their reason.

Under the previous regime, communities were pitted against each other, so we expect true social cohesion, in which every Syrian is a full citizen, enjoying full rights and freedoms same.

The authorities have in fact shown, through their statements, a real willingness to take the country from its current position to something much better, meeting the needs and aspirations of the country. hopes of all Syrians.

One expression we hear in every meeting is that it is time to move from darkness to light. In that regard, we really welcome the decision to hold a national dialogue. It is very important that this dialogue includes the voices of all Syrians, who have paid a very high price to get where they are today.

UN News: What is the UN’s role in this critical moment for Syria?

Najat Rochdi: We need to meet groups from every corner of Syria. includes feminists, religious leaders, and community leaders to better understand their priorities, concerns, and needs. This is the best way for us to support and accompany the political transition.

We had a clear idea of ​​priorities. The first thing is to determine the whereabouts and fate of the missing people. It was heartbreaking to see the families again.

After the fall of Assad, they initially had a lot of hope that their loved ones were still alive. This hope is fading but at least they want to know where their bodies are. As long as they don’t have clear answers, they will never be able to mourn and heal.

Survivors and families need to see responsibility for their actions, but there should not be any retaliation or revenge. We know that hearts are broken, there is fire in their hearts because this suffering is so great. But at the same time, the best way to truly move forward is through a genuine process of justice.

UN News: What are the other main challenges facing Syria today?

Najat Rochdi: I think the biggest challenge now is to ensure that the political transition is carried out in a way that makes all Syrians feel safe, that they are all part of that process, and that it is a comprehensive process.

The first test will certainly be the national dialogue, ensuring that it lays the foundation for political decisions that create a stable, prosperous and inclusive Syria for all Syrians.

The second challenge is to ensure that those responsible for amending the constitution or drafting a new constitution come from all sections and sectors of Syrian society, because this constitution must guarantee human rights and freedom for all.

The third issue is to ensure that the transitional government will not impose any type of quota. Inclusivity doesn’t mean you get a quota for this sect and a quota for that sect.

On the contrary, a transitional government must speak for, protect and serve everyone in the same way. Women’s voices need to be heard, not only because it is fair, but also because Syria needs every citizen to contribute to the country’s reconstruction.

Ultimately, the challenge will be to ensure that the decisions made by the transitional government ultimately lead to fair, free and transparent elections.

Another major set of challenges concerns the dire humanitarian situation. Funding is very low and there are severe gaps in access to basic services and infrastructure.

UN News: You have extensive engagement with civil society and women’s organizations in Syria. What can they contribute to political transition?

Najat Rochdi: Over the past decades, they have courageously stood up to protect their rights. They want equal rights and freedom for everyone. They want the international community and the United Nations to support equal rights for all. And they want a seat at the negotiating table, whether in a transitional government, drafting a new constitution or preparing for elections.

the Women’s Advisory Board [a group set up by the Office of the Special Envoy in 2016 to ensure diverse women’s perspectives in the political process] had a very important role in the past and still has a role.

We have encouraged them to connect with other women’s groups because now is the time for all Syrians to join forces and work together during the upcoming transition period.

At the United Nations, we seek greater engagement with governments and with all sectors of society, whether civil society or political parties or community leaders – because this is their revolution, this is their victory, this is their country. And our role is to support and accompany them whenever we need them.