UN special envoy’s warning about Syria

Syria remains fragmented into several areas that seem to be drifting apart, as de facto authorities entrench their control on the ground, and five foreign armies continue to jostle in the theatre. And Syria continues to radiate instability -- a haven for mercenaries, drug trafficking, and terrorism, United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Geir O. Pedersen said at a briefing of the Security Council.

According to him, despite no shift in front lines, it is seen continuing violence against civilians and systematic human rights abuses -- including against women and girls: "Levels of hunger and poverty have escalated as the economy has continued to implode, with 14 million people in need, the highest number since the conflict began.”

"We can only look back on 2021 as a year of deepening suffering of the Syrian people. Many tens of thousands remain detained, abducted, or missing. Thirteen million Syrians remain displaced inside and outside the country – many of their children not knowing their homeland – their prospects for safe, dignified, and voluntary return not improving – and a continuing challenge for Syria’s neighbours. Six years since its adoption, we are regrettably a long way from implementing Security Council resolution 2254 in a manner that could ease the suffering of the Syrian people, meet their legitimate aspirations, and restore Syria’s sovereignty and unity,” he added

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