Syriac Catholic Archbishop Battah urges Christian representation in drafting of new Syrian constitution

ARBA’ILO, Kurdistan Region of Iraq — During an event organized by the Catholic University of Erbil in Arba’ilo (Erbil), Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), Syriac Catholic Archbishop of Daramsuq Youhanna Jihad Battah called for formal Christian participation in the drafting of Syria’s new constitution. He firmly rejected any constitutional framework based solely on Islamic law, a stance shared by much of Syrian society.

The archbishop emphasized the importance of direct representation for Syria’s Christian communities in the constitutional process. He opposed the establishment of Islamic law as the sole legal foundation, advocating instead for an inclusive approach that respects Syria’s diverse societal components.

Highlighting Syria’s status as the birthplace of Christianity, Archbishop Battah noted the Syriac Church’s unique capacity to contribute to governance. He described the constitution as the foundational contract uniting all components of Syrian society, stressing the necessity of cooperation in its drafting.

Archbishop Battah reiterated his hope that Christians would be actively invited to participate in the constitutional process. He underscored that Christians are not merely minority guests but an essential and indigenous part of Syria. “Christians are not strangers to this homeland,” he stated, “but the people who welcome everyone, with roots deeply embedded in Syrian soil.”

Commenting on the current challenges, the archbishop acknowledged that crises exist worldwide but criticized the disproportionate focus on Christians. He urged the media to play a constructive role in fostering peace and building bridges of understanding.