United Nations (TDI): A flame of hope burns brightly is Syria today, but if it’s not carefully managed by both Syrians themselves and the global community, it risks being extinguished, UN Secretary-General António Guterres cautioned on Thursday.
Speaking to reporters in New York, Guterres said there is “a serious risk that progress could unravel,” without a “credible, inclusive, and peaceful” political transition that is Syrian led, on behalf of all its people.
“The citizens of Syria stand at a moment of opportunity and a moment of history. That chance cannot be missed,” he said.
Guterres said that the UN supports the Syrian people, knowing that this is their long-sought change to realize the peaceful movement that started with the mass protests in 2011.
“But nothing is guaranteed,” he added, urging all communities to be fully integrated into a new Syria.
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“The rights of girls and women must be fully respected. And the process must be directed by the underlying principles of Security Council resolution 2254. We are focused on expediting just such a process.”
Meanwhile, Syria is still mired in humanitarian crisis with the United Nations and partners mobilizing to evaluate the needs and respond to “rapidly shifting” conditions, he said.
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“Satisfactory funding for recovery response humanitarian aid is important. And that funding is not yet available. And I make a strong appeal to the global community to show the generosity the Syrian people deserve in this moment – and to immensely support the humanitarian response.”
The UN chief also vowed support to those who continue to live with the anguish of uncertainty over missing loved ones, announcing the appointment of Karla Quintana of Mexico, to lead the General Assembly-mandated Independent Institution on Missing Persons in Syria.
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He called for all the global mechanisms advancing the protection of human rights and accountability for the crimes of the Assad regime, to be provided the tools required “to carry out their vital work.”
