The UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, Najat Rochdi, is currently in Damascus meeting with members of the transitional authorities to ensure that all Syrians have a voice in shaping the country’s future. The country is facing a severe humanitarian crisis and a struggling economy.
In an exclusive interview with UN News, Ms. Rochdi, spoke with Reem Abaza on Friday. The interview has been edited for clarity and length.
UN News: This is your second visit to Syria since the fall of the Assad regime. Who did you meet with this time and what were your main takeaways?
Najat Rochdi: This is a historic moment that I never thought I would witness in my lifetime. The level of joy, hope, and euphoria among the Syrian people is extraordinary.
However, this also comes with high expectations. It is time to rebuild everything that was destroyed, including the dignity of all Syrians. We must ensure that every Syrian has a seat at the table, regardless of their background.
Under the previous regime, communities were divided against each other. Now, we hope for social cohesion where every Syrian is a full citizen with equal rights and freedoms.
The current authorities have expressed a strong willingness to lead the country towards a brighter future. We welcome their decision to organize a national dialogue that includes the voices of all Syrians who have paid a high price for this moment.
UN News: What role does the UN play during this critical time for Syria?
Najat Rochdi: Our role is to meet with various groups from all parts of Syria, including feminists, religious leaders, and community leaders, to understand their priorities, concerns, and needs. This will help us support and facilitate the political transition.
We already have a clear idea of the priorities. The first is to establish the whereabouts and fate of the missing. It is heartbreaking to meet with their families.
After the fall of Assad, they had hope that their loved ones were still alive. That hope is fading, but they still want closure. As long as they do not have answers, they cannot properly mourn and heal.
The survivors and families need to see justice, but without revenge or retaliation. We know that their hearts are broken and that they have suffered greatly. But the best way to move forward is through a process of real justice.
UN News: What are the other major challenges facing Syria currently?
Najat Rochdi: The biggest challenge is to ensure that the political transition is inclusive and makes all Syrians feel safe and represented. The first test will be the national dialogue, which must lay the groundwork for political decisions that will create a stable, prosperous, and inclusive Syria for all.
The second challenge is to ensure that those responsible for revising or writing the new constitution represent all parts of Syrian society. This constitution must guarantee human rights and freedoms for all.
The third challenge is to ensure that the transitional government is not based on quotas. Inclusivity means that everyone is treated equally. Women’s voices must be heard, not only because it is fair, but also because Syria needs every citizen to contribute to its reconstruction.
Ultimately, the biggest challenge will be to ensure that the decisions made by the transitional government lead to free and fair elections.
There are also significant challenges related to the humanitarian situation. Funding is low and there are shortages in basic services and infrastructure.
UN News: You have been heavily involved with Syrian civil society and women’s organizations. What role can they play in the political transition?
Najat Rochdi: Over the years, they have been brave in fighting for their rights and advocating for equal rights and freedoms for all. They want the international community and the UN to support their cause. They also want a seat at the table during the transition period, whether in the transitional government, constitution writing, or elections.
The Women’s Advisory Board, established by the Office of the Special Envoy in 2016, has played a crucial role and continues to do so. We have encouraged them to connect with other women’s groups because now is the time for all Syrians to come together and work towards a better future.
At the UN, we look forward to engaging with the authorities and all members of society – civil society, political parties, and community leaders – because this is their revolution, their victory, and their country. Our role is to support and accompany them whenever needed.