In a special session, the UN Security Council met on Tuesday to discuss the situation in Syria after the overthrow of strongman Bashar al-Assad. The Security Council members reaffirmed the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country and called for a process in which all population groups should be involved.
Before that, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, had informed the Security Council members about the situation in the country. He demanded a new constitution, free and fair elections, and an inclusive and orderly transition that ensures the preservation of state institutions and services.
The conflict is not yet over, Pedersen warned. “Yes, we see a Syria that is currently stable in many parts” he explained. “But stability can be fragile in many parts of Syria. In the northeast of the country, there are still battles at the front and open battles in which civilians are killed, wounded, and displaced.” The UN special envoy therefore emphasized the need for a nationwide ceasefire.
Moreover, a large part of the infrastructure is destroyed. 90 percent of the Syrians live in poverty. It is not only a matter of humanitarian aid, but also a reconstruction and an end to the sanctions against Syria, Pedersen said.
“The third challenge, of course, is of a political nature” the special envoy explained. “The Syrian people have sacrificed so much to determine their own future and realize their legitimate aspirations. We must ensure that the political process remains on the right track. Otherwise, I fear new instability.