UK responds to European Syriac Union’s appeal, commits to monitoring situation of minorities in Syria closely

LONDON — In response to an 11 December letter from the European Syriac Union (ESU) to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the United Kingdom’s Middle East and North Africa Committee has pledged ongoing vigilance regarding the evolving situation in Syria, emphasizing its dedication to democratic reform and minority rights.

The ESU’s letter outlined pressing concerns about the challenges faced by ethnic and religious minorities in the Middle East. It called for international action to safeguard these communities’ rights amid regional instability and emphasized the need for a just and inclusive resolution in Syria. The Union highlighted the importance of protecting the cultural and religious diversity of groups such as Syriacs (Arameans–Assyrians–Chaldeans), Kurds, Druze, Yezidis, and Alawites.

The ESU proposed a five-point plan advocating for a democratic, secular, and decentralized political system in Syria. The proposal emphasized protecting minority rights, fostering peaceful coexistence, recognizing the rights of all ethnic and religious groups, and establishing an equitable system guaranteeing equal rights and responsibilities for all Syrians. It also called for international support to stabilize the region and promote lasting peace.

In its response, the UK’s Middle East and North Africa Committee reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to supporting Syria’s stability through a political solution. The letter underscored the importance of upholding human rights and protecting the nation’s religious and ethnic diversity as essential to achieving long-term peace.

“The United Kingdom remains steadfast in its commitment to a stable and democratic Syria,” the Committee wrote. “We recognize the importance of protecting the rights of all communities to ensure a peaceful and inclusive future for the country.”

The Committee assured the ESU that the UK is actively working with international partners to address the crisis and remains focused on monitoring developments in Syria closely.

As Syria’s political landscape continues to evolve, this exchange between the European Syriac Union and UK officials underscores the importance of international dialogue in ensuring stability and protecting vulnerable populations in the region.