“What awaits us is much more than a political transition; it is the opportunity to rebuild shattered communities and heal deep divisions,” the UN chief said. “It is an opportunity to forge a nation where all Syrians – regardless of ethnicity, religion, gender or political affiliation – can live safely, equitably and with dignity.”
A year of fragile progress
Since Assad fled Damascus last December, the UN has worked closely with Syrian authorities and civil society to stabilize the country and lay the foundation for inclusive governance. Efforts have focused on restoring essential services, expanding humanitarian access and creating pathways for the return of refugees and displaced people.
In another sign of progress and hope, the UN refugee agency reports that more than one million refugees have returned since December 2024, along with some two million people inside Syria who have returned to their home communities.
Transitional justice initiatives have begun to take shape, while Syrian women have emerged as key voices in shaping new institutions and demanding equality.
Humanitarian needs remain immense, but the past year saw progress in rebuilding local governance structures and expanding civic participation, measures that the UN says are vital for an “inclusive and responsible Syria.”
The UN Independent Commission of Inquiry welcomed these measures, noting that long-denied access has finally been granted and that human rights work is underway. He praised the creation of national bodies on transitional justice and the missing, while warning that Syria’s transition remains fragile amid continued insecurity and sporadic violence in several governorates.
The Commission, which was established by the UN Human Rights Council in August 2011 to investigate all alleged violations of international human rights law since March 2011 in Syria, underlined the enduring pain of thousands of people who remain forcibly disappeared and warned that cycles of retaliation must end for peace to take root.
“Moving beyond the legacy of 14 years of war will require strength, patience and support,” he said, urging Syrians and the international community to work together to make long-denied rights a reality for all.
Go here for more information on our Syria coverage.
Request global support
In his message, Guterres urged the international community to “strongly support this Syrian-led and Syrian-owned transition,” highlighting that success depends on sustained funding for humanitarian appeals, removing barriers to reconstruction and promoting economic development.
“On this anniversary, we are united in the purpose of building a foundation of peace and prosperity and renewing our commitment to a free, sovereign, united and inclusive Syria,” he said.