UN Urges Inclusive Constitution for Syria Amid Minority Backlash

The United Nations has called on Syria to establish an inclusive constitution that protects minority rights, following criticism of a recent constitutional declaration by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, Rudaw reported.

The declaration, signed on Thursday, consists of 53 articles focusing on Islamic jurisprudence, mandates that the president must be Muslim, and sets a five-year transitional period while retaining Syria’s designation as the Syrian “Arab” Republic.

Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the constitutional process, stating, “We want to ensure that all communities in Syria feel properly included.” The declaration grants Sharaa significant powers, including the authority to appoint one-third of the legislature and judges to the constitutional court, raising concerns about accountability.

Christina Markus Lassen, president of the UN Security Council, reiterated the need to involve all groups in Syria’s transition, highlighting the importance of minority protections for a functional society. Despite Sharaa’s commitment to an inclusive political process, recent efforts have been criticized by various minority groups, including Kurds, Druze, Christians, and Yazidis, who argue that the declaration does not adequately represent their interests. The UN continues to advocate for a governance structure that reflects Syria’s diverse population.