Syria Forms Transitional Justice Body

Syria’s transitional authorities have announced the formation of a National Commission for Transitional Justice, marking a pivotal step toward addressing the aftermath of nearly 14 years of conflict and authoritarian rule.

The announcement, made on Saturday evening, comes more than five months after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

A decree signed by interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa confirmed that the newly formed body will focus on uncovering the truth behind the widespread human rights violations committed during the previous regime’s rule.

According to the decree, the commission is tasked with ensuring accountability for serious abuses, coordinating with relevant institutions to prosecute those responsible, and providing reparations to victims.

It will also work to promote national reconciliation and safeguard against future violations by embedding the principles of justice and non-repetition into Syria’s post-conflict framework.

In a parallel move, authorities also established the National Commission for the Missing, aimed at investigating the fate of thousands of missing and forcibly disappeared individuals.

This new body, also formalized by decree on Saturday, is dedicated to uncovering the truth for grieving families and providing both legal and humanitarian support.

The Missing Persons Commission will be responsible for documenting cases, building a national database, and assisting families in their search for justice. It has been granted full legal status and administrative and financial independence.

Mohammad Reza Khalaji has been appointed head of the commission. Khalaji was previously named a member of the committee responsible for drafting Syria’s interim constitutional declaration in March.