Syrian Dialogue Conference seeks to advance justice and accountability post-conflict

DARAMSUQ — Over the weekend, the Syrian capital hosted the Syrian Dialogue Conference at the Cham Hotel, uniting prominent figures and human rights organizations in a pivotal step toward justice and accountability in post-conflict Syria.

The conference focused on transitional justice, accountability, and social reconciliation, highlighting victims’ rights and the urgent need to hold perpetrators accountable. Participants stressed the importance of similar initiatives across Syria and emphasized the inclusion of all societal segments in the pursuit of justice.

Transitional Justice Mechanisms in Focus

Shireen Ibrahim, representing the Network for the Defense of the Displaced, underscored the critical role of displaced persons in shaping policies and securing their rights. Muzna Zahouri of “Dawlaty” celebrated the conference’s success in uniting over 50 Syrian organizations and initiatives, showcasing the geographical and social diversity of attendees.

Khitam Haddad, Deputy Minister of Justice in the Interim Government, called the event a vital starting point for achieving justice. Speaking to Syriac Press, she emphasized the importance of collaboration and amplifying all Syrian voices in this journey.

Yasmin al-Mishaan, head of the Caesar Families Association, highlighted the ongoing plight of detainees’ families. She criticized the Interim Government’s neglect of detainee issues and called for renewed efforts to address this critical matter. Al-Mishaan stressed that social peace is inseparable from transitional justice.

Remembering Saeed Malke: A Syriac Symbol of Struggle

The memory of Saeed Malke — a prominent leader of the Bethnahrin National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo D’Bethnahrin, MUB) — was honored during the conference. Malke, arrested at Qamishli Airport in 2013 and still missing, symbolizes the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people’s enduring fight for justice. Born in Hasakah in 1960, he dedicated his life to advocating for Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) rights, co-founding the Syriac Military Council (Mawtbo Fulḥoyo Suryoyo, MFS) and the Syriac Security Forces (Sutoro), which have played key roles in protecting their communities.

Despite tireless local and international efforts to uncover his fate, Malke’s case remains unresolved, reflecting the broader struggles faced by Syrians in their pursuit of justice.

Promising Horizons Amid Challenges

The conference concluded with a message of hope. While Syrians face immense challenges, dialogue and transitional justice were hailed as essential foundations for achieving national unity and building a new Syria that respects the rights of all its citizens.

For the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people, Hanna Said Malke’s story remains a poignant reminder of past injustices and a beacon for their ongoing struggle for justice and human rights.