Representatives of Dutch and U.S. governments meet with delegates of Syrian organizations SJAC and SOTI. Photo by: Justin Gellerson.

After more than five years of civil war, it may be difficult to foresee an end to violence in Syria. Almost daily, tragic scenes from cities like Aleppo fill the evening news. In spite of all the bloodshed, two Syrian organizations preparing for post-war justice and accountability in the country. The Netherlands and the US support their initiatives. The Netherlands has already donated 750,000 euros and pledged 500,000 more for the coming years.

Justice

The Syria Justice and Accountability Centre (SJAC) is the only organization working inside Syria to comprehensively collect evidence of torture. The Syrian Survivors of Torture Initiative (SOTI) bolsters training for mental health professionals to provide specialized services to treat trauma and survivors of torture.

Today, Dutch Ambassador Henne Schuwer and US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Virginia Bennett hosted a donor conference for the two organizations. Representatives of 10 countries were present, as well as US Under Secretary of State Sarah Sewall.

The Netherlands holds respect for human rights in high regard, which it is why it wants to ensure accountability for possible war crimes and crimes against humanity. Moreover, the Netherlands is calling for increased pressure and international attention vis-à-vis on-the-ground developments in Syria.

This event builds upon a 2015 expert conference on documenting international crimes in Syria, organized by the US, Denmark and the Netherlands. A large number of civil groups attended the conference, including the Syria Justice & Accountability Center.

Full Speeches by Ambassador Henne Schuwer and US Under Secretary of State Sarah Sewall.