Vienna, June 1 (SANA) Syria is pursuing judicial and institutional reforms aimed at strengthening justice , accountability and the rule of law, Deputy Minister of Justice Mustafa al-Qassem said during the 35th session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice at the United Nations headquarters in Vienna.
Al-Qassem said Syria had entered a new phase focused on rebuilding state institutions and consolidating legal safeguards after a deep collapse in the justice system during the period of the deposed regime.
He said that phase had been marked by serious human rights violations, widespread crimes, weakened judicial institutions and an environment of impunity, fear and social division.
The Syrian state is currently working to strengthen the role of the judiciary and law enforcement bodies within a legal and institutional framework designed to protect rights and public freedoms, al-Qassem said.
He said the reforms include restructuring the judiciary, reinforcing judicial independence, abolishing exceptional courts, promoting transparency in legal proceedings and guaranteeing the right to defense.
Al-Qassem said Syria is continuing efforts in criminal justice and transitional justice through truth-seeking, accountability for perpetrators of crimes and violations, and measures to provide justice for victims.
He said these efforts are intended to support national unity, civil peace and social reconciliation.
The U.N. Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice is holding its 35th session in Vienna from June 1 to 5, bringing together member states to discuss international cooperation in crime prevention, criminal justice and related legal issues.
KA.ABD
