17.06.2025 Statement by Denmark at the UNSC briefing on Syria

Checked Against Delivery

Thank you, Madam President,

And let me also thank Deputy Special Envoy Rochdi and Assistant Secretary-General Msuya for their comprehensive briefings.

Ms. Khoulani, thank you for your powerful testimony and your description of the mixed feelings of grief and hope that many Syrian people have. Denmark is proud to have stood with the Syrian people throughout these difficult years.

Madam President,

Allow me to make three points:

First, on the security situation.

There can be no meaningful recovery in Syria without genuine safety and protection for all Syrians.

Protection of civilians is a cornerstone of international humanitarian law.  While we acknowledge the Syrian transitional government’s efforts to create a legitimate and united national army, more must be done towards securing the protection of all civilians.

Reports of abductions of women, sporadic killings of civilians and systematic attacks on communities need to be swiftly and credibly addressed.

We are also worried about the continued threat posed by terrorism in Syria. We strongly condemn attacks by Da’esh in Aleppo and other parts of Syria, and we welcome the transitional government’s emphasis on combatting terrorism.

Second, on the humanitarian and economic situation.

Denmark is pleased with the European Union’s decision to lift sanctions on Syria. This decision is a strong signal of the EU’s commitment to support Syria’s transition and economic recovery.

The newly concluded electricity and power agreements is another important step towards progress.

It is now essential that these initial gains are continuously build upon and ultimately lead towards a broader, long-term positive economic impact and development for the Syrian people.

Funding shortfalls are critical, and millions of Syrians continue to face food and water insecurity. Water scarcity, in particular, remains a serious concern.

Denmark has and will continue to work to ensure access to water, including through our project with the ICRC on securing the continued supply of drinking water to more than 12 million people in urban centres across Syria.

Third, Madam President, on the political process.

We welcome yesterday’s announcement by the transitional government on the establishment of the Supreme Committee for Elections to the People’s Assembly.

We reiterate the call for an inclusive, transparent, and open process as well as for the full, equal, and meaningful participation and representation of women. 

We take note of the establishment of the transitional justice and missing persons commissions. These are important first steps towards a comprehensive and inclusive transitional justice process that represents all the victims. It is important to focus on atrocities committed by all actors across Syria.

We reiterate our strong support for Special Envoy Pedersen, his team, and all UN-staff working to assist Syria at this critical stage. We repeat the need for a political transition in line with resolution 2254. A transition which must be led and owned by the Syrian people.

Madam President,

On the regional level, the situation looks even more challenging now than it did just one week ago.

We welcome the Transitional Government’s regional engagement, including constructive dialogue between Syria and its neighbours.

We reiterate our support for Syria’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity and call on all parties to adhere to the 1974-agreement. We also welcome both Syria’s and Israel’s calls for an extension of the UNDOF mandate later this month.

Denmark stands ready to work with Syria, with this Council, and with the broader international community in support of a peaceful and inclusive transition.

I Thank you.