UN experts expressed deep concern Aug. 21 over continuing violence against the Druze population in the Suwayda region in Syria. Since mid-July, the experts said have received reports of "killings, enforced disappearances, abductions, looting, destruction of property, and sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls." The UN experts especially emphasized the prevalence of gender-based violence, reporting that an estimated 105 Druze women and girls have been abducted by armed groups in connection with the Syrian interim authorities.

The treatment of Druze communities in Syria has urged the experts to call for independent investigations:

These reported violations expose an apparent systemic failure to protect minorities and address gender-based violence, with no thorough, independent and impartial investigations into extrajudicial killings, torture or abductions… Reports that the interim authorities’ forces aided attacks have entrenched impunity and fear, silencing victims’ families and obstructing efforts to locate the disappeared.

The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Syria, Adam Abdelmoula, has emphasized the importance of local civil society organizations in assisting displaced populations in Syria and underlined that "their efforts deserve recognition and sustained resources to expand their reach and impact."

The armed attacks between the Druze and Bedouin groups in Suwayda were triggered by an attack on a Druze merchant by Bedouin tribesmen on July 13. In response to the violence, protestors  have repeatedly gathered in Suwayda to demand the right of self-determination for the Druze people. Protestors have faced attacks because of their activism. On Aug. 10, the UN Security Council sounded an alarm in a presidential statement over the violence against civilians in the Suwayda region and called on all parties to adhere to ceasefire arrangements.

From JURIST, Aug. 23. Used with permission. Internal links added.