Syria joins global initiative to uphold humanitarian law standards

Syria's permanent representative to the United Nations Ibrahim Olabi submitted the accession document during a meeting with International Committee of the Red Cross President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement issued Thursday, marking the new administration's latest effort to expand responsible engagement with the international community.

The ministry said the move reflected Damascus' commitment to international norms through practical measures and active diplomacy, adding that the decision honored the suffering of Syrians caused by "grave and systematic violations" committed under the previous administration.

Damascus also expressed readiness to contribute constructively to the process through multilateral cooperation and closer coordination with international partners, particularly the International Committee of the Red Cross, according to the statement.

Legacy of rights abuses

Human rights have long remained among the most contentious issues in Syria's international relations, with UN bodies and rights organizations repeatedly accusing the government of Bashar al-Assad of arbitrary detention, systematic torture and enforced disappearances during his nearly 25-year rule.

Assad fled to Russia in December 2024 — ending decades of Baath Party governance that began in 1963 — and triggering the formation of a transitional administration led by Ahmad al-Sharaa in January 2025.

Transitional diplomatic push

The new administration has since pursued broader diplomatic re-engagement and stronger institutional cooperation with humanitarian organizations. Officials emphasized their intention to break with past practices and demonstrate compliance with international legal standards through concrete initiatives. The ministry noted that Syria's participation seeks specifically to support international efforts to protect civilians and reduce human suffering during armed conflicts.