Syria’s hopes for renewal hinge on rebuilding trust, lives and livelihoods
Across Syria, the scars of war remain etched into communities that have endured years of violence, displacement and loss. Yet amid the devastation, hopes are
Across Syria, the scars of war remain etched into communities that have endured years of violence, displacement and loss. Yet amid the devastation, hopes are also taking root, hopes for security, decent jobs, functioning schools and hospitals, and a future in which people from every background feel they belong. During a landmark visit to Damascus, UN Secretary-General António Guterres encountered both realities. Tweet URL He visited the notorious Sednaya prison, where thousands were tortured and killed during the conflict, listened to accounts of fear and suffering, and met representatives of Syria's diverse communities, civil society groups, women and young people seeking a stake in their country's future. As he wrapped up his visit, the UN chief said political change must now deliver tangible improvements for all Syrians, backed by sustained international support. This comes a day after the Secretary-General met President Ahmad Al-Sharaa and reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting the Syrian people and working closely with the country’s authorities during a critical period of transition. A pivotal moment “After so much suffering, this period of transition is a rare moment in the life of a nation,” Mr. Guterres told journalists on Sunday as he concluded the second day of his visit.
“A moment of responsibility, possibility and choice.” Describing Syria as a country at a historic turning point, the Secretary-General said people across the nation were drawing on their own experiences and aspirations to shape a new future after years of conflict. Over the course of his visit, he said he witnessed both the deep wounds left by war and the determination of Syrians to move forward. “During these past days, I have seen the scars left by years of conflict. I have heard about pain, loss, displacement and fear.” But alongside those experiences, he said, he had also encountered resilience and optimism. “I have felt a profound sense of hope.” UN/ Ali Haj Sulieman Diversity a source of strength Throughout his remarks, the Secretary-General repeatedly emphasized Syria's rich diversity, describing it as one of the country's defining characteristics and a foundation for lasting peace. “This country has long known what it means to be a crossroads – of civilizations, cultures, faiths and ideas,” he said. “That diversity is not incidental to Syria. It is one of this country's greatest strengths.” Guterres stressed that the success of the transition would depend on ensuring all Syrians feel represented in the country's future and can participate meaningfully in shaping it.
The BriefWire