In 2024, the human rights situation in Syria continued to be alarmingly severe, marked by pervasive abuses and violations committed by the government, various armed groups, and de facto authorities throughout the country [1][4]. The intersection of ongoing political conflicts, economic decline, and social unrest has compounded the human rights crisis, leading to a deteriorating environment for civilians.
Political Context
The Assad regime remains firmly entrenched in power as of 2024, despite persistent internal and external conflicts. The government has maintained its authoritarian grip through brutal tactics, including widespread arbitrary detention and enforced disappearances. These actions are especially targeted at those perceived as dissenters or threats to the regime’s stability [1][2]. In response to these abuses, the UN General Assembly has established an international institution aimed at clarifying the fate of the missing and providing reparations to victims’ families, though this has yet to translate into substantial changes on the ground [5].
Economic Context
The economic landscape in Syria has continued to deteriorate, with the Syrian Pound (SYP) experiencing a severe devaluation against the US Dollar throughout 2024. This economic instability has led to sharp increases in the prices of basic goods and services, exacerbating the already dire living conditions for the average citizen [1][2]. The government’s practices of property confiscation and control, justified by a framework of restrictive laws, further aggravate the economic hardships faced by the population [1][2].
Social Context
Socially, Syria remains in a state of deep crisis. The continuous conflict has led to gross human rights violations including arbitrary detention, torture, sexual violence, and enforced disappearances. Vulnerable groups, particularly women returnees, face heightened risks of abuse [4]. The government’s policies have severely restricted access to essential services for residents and internally displaced persons in the north-western regions, violating their economic and social rights [5].
Significant Events
Several significant events in 2024 have further influenced the human rights landscape:
January 2024:
The Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) reported at least 37 attacks on vital civilian infrastructure by regime forces, including the use of incendiary weapons. This period also saw the continuation of restrictive and punitive measures against civilians in government-controlled areas, particularly targeting political dissenters [2].
February 2024:
The UN Human Rights Office released a comprehensive report on the abuses faced by Syrian returnees. This report underscored the violation of international principles such as due process and non-refoulement, emphasising the need to protect returnees from violence and abuse [4].
Conclusion
The human rights situation in Syria in 2024 remains critical, with ongoing abuses that reflect deep-seated systemic issues within the country’s political, economic, and social frameworks. Despite international efforts to address the plight of missing persons and advocate for human rights, the Assad regime’s policies continue to perpetuate a cycle of violence and repression. The continued deterioration in living conditions and the lack of effective legal recourse highlight the urgent need for comprehensive and sustained international intervention.