In a forceful plea on Sunday, the Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) demanded that the Syrian government take immediate action against the individuals who violently attacked peaceful protesters in Damascus. The assault, which took place in front of the People’s Assembly, left several protesters with injuries and instilled panic among the crowd, which included notable human rights activists.

The SNHR criticized the apparent indifference of nearby law enforcement officers during the attacks, labeling the lack of prosecution for the aggressors a significant failure by the authorities. In response to this oversight, the SNHR has urged the establishment of an independent complaint mechanism within the Syrian transitional government, allowing citizens to report threats and attacks linked to their activism.

The international legal framework supports the SNHR's demands, citing the right to peaceful assembly as a fundamental human right. According to Article 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), this right can only be restricted in extreme cases necessary for public safety. Furthermore, the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders (1998) underlines the obligation of states to protect individuals engaged in peaceful protest, ensuring they receive protection under national law.

The recent protests outside the legislative building in Damascus were primarily aimed at calling attention to and halting the ongoing violence in the southern governorate of Suwayda. This region, predominantly inhabited by the Druze community, has been the scene of severe unrest, including mass killings and forced displacements.

Adding to the urgency of the situation, UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk has also called for immediate accountability and an end to the violence in Suwayda. Following distressing reports of widespread atrocities, including the unlawful killings and summary executions in mid-July, Türk emphasized the critical need for justice and protection for the civilians in the region.

As international and local pressure mounts, the world watches closely, waiting to see if the Syrian government will adhere to these calls for justice and implement measures to safeguard its citizens' rights to protest and live peacefully.