This report examines Syrians’ perceptions of justice during a sensitive transitional period, where justice is seen not just as a narrow legal process but as a broader effort to address the root causes of violations and prevent their recurrence. The survey indicates that most Syrians directly link justice with restoring violated rights, establishing equality before the law, and creating a state based on the rule of law instead of impunity. Participants also emphasize that genuine justice is essential for sustainable peace in Syria, cautioning that ignoring accountability or avoiding it will only lead to more violence and deepen divisions.
The report emphasizes that holding those responsible for serious crimes accountable is a key demand for many Syrians, alongside a firm rejection of any idea of a general amnesty for such crimes. Pursuing truth and documenting violations from the years of conflict are seen as crucial, not only to give victims redress but also to protect collective memory and prevent the distortion or denial of facts in the future. In this context, victims’ involvement in justice processes is a primary expectation, especially for those who have experienced detention or direct abuse, where participation is viewed both as a right and as a way to ensure more credible and legitimate justice.
The report also highlights differences in priorities among various social groups, with women and minorities expressing more specific demands related to rights, protection, and institutional reform. This indicates a strong awareness that justice cannot be fully achieved without transforming the structures and legal frameworks that perpetuate discrimination and violations. Overall, the findings show a popular desire for a transitional justice process that not only addresses past abuses but also prepares the ground for a real transformation in the nature of the state and the relationship between authority and society, thereby paving the way for a more just and stable future for Syria.