Introduction

1. The ongoing violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in Syrian territories occupied by the Republic of Türkiye (Türkiye) have highlighted significant accountability gaps. Despite numerous credible reports of grave violations that may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, there has been a persistent lack of investigation, prosecution, punishment, and remedies for victims. This accountability gap has allowed perpetrators to act with impunity, further entrenching the cycle of violations and injustice. The upcoming Human Rights Committee’s review of Türkiye presents a critical opportunity for the Committee to address Türkiye and affiliated proxy actors’ widespread violations of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), urging Türkiye to fulfil its obligations as an occupying power and to take meaningful steps to ensure accountability. By examining Türkiye’s obligations under the ICCPR in the Syrian-occupied territories, the Committee can help ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that justice is served for the victims of these serious violations.

1. To this end, Syrians for Truth and Justice (STJ), and other NGOs, submit this report to the Human Rights Committee concerning the review of Türkiye’s report at its 142nd session. The report aims to provide the Committee with critical insights and information to ensure that the grave violations of the ICCPR that have occurred and continue to occur in Syrian territories occupied by Türkiye are thoroughly examined and addressed during the review of Türkiye’s compliance with its ICCPR obligations. The report focuses on the following key areas of concern:

• Right to Life (Article 6)
• Prohibition of Torture, Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and Violations of Liberty and Security of the Person (Articles 7, 9, 10)
• Non-Discrimination (Articles 2, 26, 27)
• Lack of Access to Justice, Accountability, and Remedy (Articles 2, 6, 7, 14, 25)

1. The report heavily relies on data collected from primary sources by STJ, using methodologies consistent with the documentation of human rights violations. The information provided by STJ essentially builds from exclusive first-hand data and consented detailed statements collected by field researchers from primary sources, including victims, survivors, or witnesses. STJ also relies on information gathered from diverse secondary sources, including open sources, as well as informants and individuals embedded within the structures of de facto authorities and armed groups. This information is subsequently cross-verified by STJ’s network of researchers and reporters, who validate it through primary sources. Additionally, the report draws on information collected through the submitting organisations’ research and review of the reports of the International Independent Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic (COI) and reports and publications by international organisations. For the legal analysis, references are made to international treaties, case law from international courts, and legal documents such as General Comments from Treaty Bodies.