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UN official outlines steps needed for Syria’s political transition and constitution process
Summary
A UN official briefed the Security Council on recent national dialogue and a constitutional declaration, welcomed some incorporation of international norms but warned of concerns about process transparency and a strong presidency.
A UN official told the Security Council that a national dialogue in February and a constitutional declaration in March mark initial steps in Syria’s political transition, but cautioned that the drafting process lacked transparency and raised concerns about an overly powerful presidency.
The official said the February national dialogue produced a final outcome statement containing nonbinding recommendations and that the caretaker authority issued a constitutional declaration in March, which “I hope will move Syria toward restoring the rule of law and promoting an orderly inclusive transition.” The official said some Syrians welcomed the incorporation of international human rights norms into the constitution, while others “expressed reservations about the non transparent process of its drafting and the substance itself, particularly a very strong presidency with unclear checks and balances between state powers and ambiguity regarding the transition steps.”
The official said the UN office was consulted informally and formally toward the end of the drafting process and offered advice, describing some recommendations as taken on board and others not. The official called for continued UN support for a Syrian-led process that adheres to Security Council guidance, and explicitly referenced “Security Council Resolution 2,254,” saying the UN should deepen cooperation on the transition going forward.
The UN official said the caretaker foreign minister has indicated a constitutional committee will be formed to prepare a permanent constitution, and underscored the importance of securing popular approval and preparing for free and fair elections. The official said Syrians await announcements on a transitional government to be appointed by “Mr. Alshara” and on a transitional legislative council that will be partially appointed and partially elected by a process to be determined.
The official said the composition of transitional bodies will signal whether they reflect diverse competencies and constituencies, and emphasized the need to include both women and men in these organs. The official said the UN will continue engagement and urged that constitutional steps and election preparation incorporate international best practices and norms.
