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Interactive Dialogue on the Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic
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September 23, 2021

Interactive Dialogue on the Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic

UN Human Rights Council – 48th Session 

Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America

As Delivered by Mr. Jesse Lynch 

Madame President,  

We thank the COI for its excellent reporting to the Human Rights Council and General Assembly.  

A decade after courageous Syrians took to the streets demanding respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, we continue to stand with the Syrian people in demanding justice and accountability. 

We share the COI’s concern about the  killings of Syrian civilians engaged in reconciliation efforts and protests in places like Daraa.  

Every Syrian family is affected by the regime’s abuses – particularly its barbaric campaign of arbitrary detention and torture targeting Syrians, over 149,000 of whom reportedly remain missing or in detention. 

We urge the UN Special Envoy and OHCHR to enhance engagement to hasten the release of arbitrarily detained persons. 

Question:  Could the COI describe  regime reprisals against Syrian refugees who have returned to the country, including arbitrary detentions and killings?