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Assyrian Monitor Condemns Violations Against Druze in Syria, Demands Safe Return |
The Assyrian Monitor for Human Rights is deeply concerned by the escalating violations targeting the Druze community in Syria. Our observers in Damascus have documented offensive and inflammatory graffiti on the facades of shuttered shops belonging to Druze individuals who were forcibly displaced from Qatana, a town in rural Damascus.
These acts are more than just verbal abuse; they are a direct incitement to violence and a threat to civilian lives. Their clear aim is to obstruct the safe return of these displaced individuals to their homes and properties. The Monitor notes that these practices are part of a broader, systematic campaign of incitement against the Druze, increasingly fueled by entities close to the authorities through what's known as "electronic flies" (online trolls). This concerted effort seeks to embed hate speech and deepen societal divisions.
The Assyrian Monitor for Human Rights expresses its utmost concern and strong condemnation of these repeated and systematic attacks against Syrian Druze citizens. We emphasize that these shameful practices represent a blatant violation of fundamental human rights, including the right to life, dignity, and safe living in one's homeland. They also contribute to fanning the flames of hate speech and exacerbating social divisions at a time when Syria is in dire need of national unity and solidarity. Targeting any component of the Syrian people based on their religious or ethnic affiliation is an unjustifiable crime and unequivocally contradicts all international standards, norms, and conventions that prohibit discrimination and incitement to fanaticism and sectarianism.
We call upon the Syrian authorities to immediately put an end to these violations and to take all necessary measures to facilitate a safe and dignified return for the displaced to their areas and properties. We also underscore the moral and legal responsibility of these authorities to protect all Syrian citizens without discrimination and to guarantee their right to live in peace and security.
Assyrian Monitor for Human Rights
June 22, 2025 Sweden
