Why Many Syrians Feel Assad’s Death Sentence Isn’t Enough

The recent death sentence handed down to former dictator Bashar Assad by a Syrian court has been met with mixed reactions from survivors and activists. Some view it as a crucial step towards accountability, while others are skeptical about its impact on the ground.

For many Syrians like Huda Khayti, who lost her brother and saw her home destroyed during the civil war, the death sentence feels hollow. Khayti’s emotional connection to her hometown of Douma is palpable, but so too is her frustration with the slow pace of transitional justice. When asked about her experiences traveling through Syria, she said, “I see traces of war everywhere – so much suffering, so much trauma.” This sentiment resonates with many Syrians who have witnessed the devastating consequences of Assad’s regime firsthand.

The verdict against Assad and other high-ranking officials has sparked debate about the effectiveness of transitional justice. Lina Chawaf, a Syrian journalist, notes that while the conviction is significant, it may not lead to actual punishment. Assad continues to live in Russia, like many other Syrian criminals who fled there, she said. This raises questions about the credibility and commitment of countries like Russia, which have been accused of shielding Assad from accountability.

Transitional justice involves more than just prosecuting regime members; it requires a comprehensive approach that addresses trauma and suffering inflicted upon civilians during the war. This includes searching for missing persons, investigating crimes, providing reparations, and implementing institutional reforms. The Syrian Network for Human Rights estimates that over 234,805 civilians were killed during the conflict, with at least 202,000 of those deaths attributed to the Assad regime.

Survivors like Khayti must be empowered to participate in every stage of transitional justice, including sharing their experiences, providing input on compensation and financial support, and receiving public recognition for their suffering. Rana Sheikh-Ali from Daret Salam emphasized that “victims must also participate in every detail related to transitional justice.”

The unfinished business of transitional justice in Syria is not just about punishing high-ranking officials; it’s also about confronting the complicity of those who enabled Assad’s regime. Khayti’s demand for convictions against individuals responsible for torture and other atrocities highlights the need for a more nuanced approach that addresses the full spectrum of human rights abuses.

As we move forward, it’s crucial to recognize that transitional justice is not a one-time event but an ongoing process that requires sustained commitment from all stakeholders involved. The verdict against Assad may be significant, but it’s only a starting point in addressing the deep-seated trauma and suffering inflicted upon Syrians during the civil war.

The challenges ahead are formidable, but so too is the determination of survivors like Khayti to see justice served. True accountability requires more than just convictions; it demands a comprehensive and victim-centered approach that addresses the scars of war for generations to come.

In the end, transitional justice in Syria will not be complete until every voice is heard, every loss is acknowledged, and every perpetrator is held accountable. The verdict against Assad may mark a turning point, but the real work lies ahead – building a society that can confront its past and create a brighter future for all Syrians.