Accountability in Syria

Although the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria has repeatedly stated that atrocity crimes have been and continue to be perpetrated in Syria, the international community has not been able to take steps to hold the perpetrators accountable. In preparing for a possible Geneva II meeting, it is important to discuss the role of accountability in the wider context of a peace process.

A number of proposals have been suggested regarding how to best ensure accountability for the worst crimes committed in Syria. On January 17th, IPI, together with the Permanent Mission of Liechtenstein, hosted a policy forum focusing on transitional justice in Syria, including the advantages and disadvantages of various acountability models.

These include a hybrid tribunal in Syria, a referral to the International Criminal Court (ICC) by the UN Security Council, and a self-referral to the ICC by the Syrian Opposition.

Moderator:
Ambassador Maureen Quinn, Director of Programs, International Peace Institute

Speakers:
Mr. Kenneth Roth, Executive Director, Human Rights Watch
H.E. Mr. Christian Wenaweser, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Permanent Mission of the Principality of Liechtenstein to the United Nations
Mr. Craig Charney, President, Charney Research
Mr. Jeffrey S. Howell, Chief of Staff, The Syrian Accountability Project