Towards a Community
Rooted Transitional Justice in Syria
Date: June 2026
This paper presents a policy framework for building a Syrian transitional justice system
grounded in community participation, transparency, and respect for local realities, while
aligning with international standards. It views transitional justice not merely as a judicial
process, but as a national project aimed at rebuilding trust among Syrians and restoring
the relationship between the state and society.
The paper is based on an extensive participatory process that included 16 dialogue
sessions across Syria, engaging more than 300 participants from diverse social and
professional backgrounds, including survivors of detention, families of the missing,
judges, lawyers, activists, academics, and representatives of local communities and
organizations.
The proposed framework recommends establishing an independent National
Transitional Justice Commission and a National Commission for Missing Persons,
strengthening accountability mechanisms and witness protection, implementing
comprehensive reparations and recognition programs for victims, ensuring meaningful
participation of affected groups, and advancing institutional reforms within the judiciary,
security sector, military, and public administration to prevent recurrence of violations.
The paper further calls for the adoption of a Syrian Transitional Justice Law, the
development of a phased national implementation plan, the creation of a national
reparations and social recovery fund, and the launch of a public awareness campaign
that promotes transitional justice as a foundation for sustainable peace and a renewed
social contract based on rights, dignity, and equal citizenship.
