The International Commission of Inquiry: Syia is witnessing the largest escalation in four years

The chair of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria, Paulo Pinheiro, said in a brief to the UN General Assembly that ” Syia is witnessing the largest escalation in four years, amid a complete disregard for civilians’ lives.”

Pinheiro said: “The disrespect for fundamental international humanitarian law norms for a long time in Syria has led to undermine and erode the essence of international protection system.”

Pinheiro made it clear that “Syria continues to represent the world’s largest refugee crisis, with more than 7 million fled the country and more than 6 million internally displaced.”

Pinheiro called on all parties to respect the freedom of opinions and assembly for Syrian people and acknowledge their legitimate aspirations and humanitarian rights, emphasizing that this is the key to end the conflict.

Pinheiro explained that “The voices of Syrian survivors and victims will be demonstrated through procedures at the International Court of Justice, stressing that it is an important step in a process that could oblige the Assad regime to permanently stop practicing systematic torture.”

Pinheiro concluded saying: “With increasing normalization with the Assad regime, it is crucial that the human rights and legitimate demands of the Syrian people, including victims and survivors, be central to all diplomatic efforts.”