07/11/2016 Political Affairs and Democracy
In a draft resolution adopted unanimously, the Political Affairs Committee calls for the immediate implementation of the ceasefire agreement of September 2016 and an immediate end by Syrian and Russian forces to all aerial bombardments of Aleppo. Condemning the human rights violations and abuses committed, some of which may constitute war crimes or crimes against humanity according to the committee, it calls for those responsible to be brought to justice, including, as appropriate, before the International Criminal Court.
Based on a report by Jean-Claude Mignon (France, EPP/CD), former President of the PACE, the committee calls in particular on the Syrian authorities and their allies to promptly allow unhindered and sustained humanitarian access. It stresses that an inclusive Syrian-led political process leading to a genuine political transition must meet the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people and enable them independently and democratically to determine their own future.
Fearing that the escalation of violence could lead to even deeper conflicts in Syria and in the whole region, in particular in Iraq, and represents a threat to worldwide security, the committee urges the Russian Federation, the United States of America and all relevant parties involved in the conflict to search for a common position and to conduct joint international action. The committee also adopted a draft recommendation to this effect for the attention of the Organisation’s Committee of Ministers.
The report will be discussed by the Standing Committee on 25 November in Cyprus.