Introduction

This is a joint submission by Christian Solidarity Worldwide and Syrian Christians for Peace regarding the deteriorating human rights situation in the Syrian Arab Republic. Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) is a Christian organisation working for religious freedom through human rights in the pursuit of justice. Syrian Christians for Peace is an interdenominational Christian organisation that promotes values of human rights and religious freedom and is committed to fostering inter-faith dialogue and peaceful co-existence in Syria.

During its 2011 review Syria accepted several recommendations from member states. These included, inter alia, undertakings to facilitate unhindered access to the Commission of Inquiry; establish a national institute for the promotion and protection of human rights; respect the right to life, freedom of expression and opinion and freedom of assembly; end the use of torture and other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment against civilians; engage civil society in the implementation of UPR recommendations; ensure new legislation regulating freedom of assembly is brought in line with international human rights legislation; release all prisoners of conscience and arbitrarily detained persons; establish an independent and impartial judicial system; and end the impunity enjoyed by members of the military and security services.

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