Syria’s Justice Minister Mazhar al-Wais stated on Monday that denying, questioning, justifying or glorifying crimes committed by the ousted regime constitutes a violation of the Constitutional Declaration governing Syria’s transitional period.
Al-Wais said the Syrian people had endured decades of oppression, persecution and serious human rights violations before regaining their freedom on Dec. 8, 2024, marking a new national phase founded on justice, fairness, the rule of law and the protection of rights and freedoms.
He said that, in line with the principles set stipulated in the Constitutional Declaration—particularly those relating to transitional justice—denying crimes committed by the deposed regime, casting doubt on their occurrence, justifying them or glorifying those responsible constitutes a violation of the declaration because it undermines the rights of victims and the nation’s collective memory.
Al-Wais said the Public Prosecution, as the authority responsible for initiating criminal proceedings, is pursuing such violations in accordance with the law. He called on citizens to report any acts or statements that violate the Constitutional Declaration so that the necessary legal measures can be taken under the applicable legislation.
The minister added that the Justice Ministry has completed a draft law regulating this matter, describing it as essential to protecting victims’ rights, preserving historical truth, safeguarding the memory of future generations and preventing the recurrence of violations. He said the draft will be submitted to the People’s Assembly once it convenes to complete the constitutional procedures required for its adoption.
Article 49 of Syria’s Constitutional Declaration criminalizes the glorification of the Assad regime and its symbols and provides that denying, praising, justifying or minimizing crimes committed by the former regime constitutes an offense punishable by law.
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