UN: Evidence shows Syria's Assad complicit in war crimes
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 2 December 2013 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, UN: Evidence shows Syria's Assad complicit in war crimes, 2 December 2013, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/52e659855.html [accessed 17 September 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
December 02, 2013
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay (file photo)
UN rights chief Navi Pillay says there is evidence that implicates Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and members of his government in war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Pillay said Monday a UN probe into rights violations committed during the 33 months of the Syrian conflict has produced "massive evidence" of crimes against humanity.
"The evidence indicates responsibility at the highest level of government, including the head of state," she added.
It marks the first time a UN-mandated commission has directly implicated Syria's leadership in crimes committed during the Syrian conflict.
However, a list of suspects the commission has collected remains sealed until any formal prosecution starts.
Pillay also criticized groups fighting against the Syrian government, saying, "The scale of viciousness of the abuses being perpetrated by elements on both sides almost defies belief."
Based on reporting by AFP and dpa
Link to original story on RFE/RL website