Crisis in the Education Sector

The ongoing crisis in the educational sector in the liberated areas of northern Syria highlights a painful reality that goes beyond administrative shortcomings — it strikes at the dignity and status of teachers in a society that could not have endured without their resilience.

From Azaz and Al-Bab to Jarabulus, Marea, and Afrin, these cities and villages have never been mere dots on the map. They are living arenas of struggle, where the price of freedom and dignity was paid in full. At the centre of this struggle stood the teacher: in tents, in destroyed schools, and in frontline classrooms under bombardment, striving to prevent an entire generation from falling into ignorance, extremism, or despair.

Salaries Suspended, Silence from the Authorities

More than fourteen years after their sacrifices began, teachers are now facing an uncertain fate. Salaries, once provided through the Turkish side, have been suspended for nearly two months. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education of the Syrian Interim Government remains silent — offering no official statement, no timeline for payment, and no explanation to teachers who are enduring harsh living conditions.

According to informed sources, the Turkish side has already submitted files to integrate teachers into the institutions of the Syrian Interim Government and secure their positions. However, the process has stalled in ministry offices, turning into a clear case of administrative neglect.

Voices of Teachers and Activists

Teachers are once again raising their voices — not only to demand their salaries, but to reclaim their role and mission.

“I taught my students not to submit to injustice, and now they ask me to accept humiliation and be treated as a burden. We preserved education when state institutions collapsed — how can our resilience be rewarded with neglect?”
— Teacher from northern rural Aleppo

Activists have launched an online campaign under the hashtags:
#Voice_of_the_Teacher #Teacher_is_a_Red_Line #Integrate_Northern_Syria_Teachers
reminding the world that education cannot become a bargaining chip or a casualty of administrative chaos.

Clear and Legitimate Demands

Teachers are calling for urgent action:

• Immediate payment of overdue salaries
• Issuance of an official statement clarifying the teachers’ situation
• Recognition of education as a national priority, not a marginal issue

To continue marginalising teachers after all their sacrifices is not merely an institutional failure — it is a betrayal of a revolutionary journey that has lasted more than a decade. The future of education in northern Syria now depends on a decision, a voice, and a responsible stance.

Who Is Behind the Marginalisation?

The pressing question remains: who is responsible for this neglect, particularly in light of the reappearance of former human rights violators from the collapsed Assad regime and the silence surrounding their return?

International, regional, and local organisations have already condemned the Ministry of Education’s marginalisation of teachers in northern Syria. Full reports are currently being prepared on the reality of education in Syria.

Reported:
Ahmed Mowas
IHRC Journalist

The post Teachers in Northern Syria: Resilient in the Face of Neglect and Uncertain Fate first appeared on ihrc.news.

As part of efforts to promote a culture of national dialogue and strengthen the principles of justice and accountability, Mr. Yahya Al-Amouri, the Commissioner of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in Syria, organized a cultural symposium titled “Transitional Justice: The Philosophy of Change Between Accountability and Reconciliation”. The event took place in the city of Salamiyah, Hama Governorate, and was attended by human rights activists, civil society representatives, local dignitaries, and youth engaged in Syria’s democratic transformation and societal reconciliation.

The symposium delved into the concept of transitional justice as a key tool for rebuilding post-conflict societies. The discussion focused on essential elements of transitional justice, such as truth-seeking, reparations, and institutional reform. These mechanisms were discussed in the context of Syria’s unique situation, while also drawing from the experiences of other countries that have undergone similar processes.

In his speech, Mr. Al-Amouri emphasized that transitional justice is not merely about holding perpetrators accountable but also about building trust among Syrians. He stressed the need to find a delicate balance between justice and reconciliation to ensure a shared future based on human dignity and the rule of law.

The symposium also provided an opportunity to discuss key mechanisms such as truth-seeking, reparations, and institutional reform – critical pillars of transitional justice – highlighting the importance of learning from other countries’ experiences, while not neglecting Syria’s unique context.

The event was positively received by participants, who emphasized the importance of involving all segments of Syrian society in such dialogue to achieve fair and inclusive solutions.

Reporter: Ahmed Mowas
IHRC Press Journalist
IHRC – Syria

The post Cultural Symposium in Salamiyah Highlights Transitional Justice and Its Role in National ReconciliationSalamiyah – Hama first appeared on ihrc.news.

Empowering Special Education through Early Intervention

11 August 2025
Idlib, Syria

A Milestone for Special Education in Idlib

The city of Idlib marked an important step in advancing inclusive education with the closing ceremony of the “Safe Point” project, a two-month initiative dedicated to early intervention in special education. The project was supervised by the Resalat Amal team and implemented with the support of the Violet Organization.

Over the course of the programme, local female volunteers were trained in the basics of early intervention, strengthening their ability to provide specialised care and psychosocial support to children with special needs. This capacity-building effort represents a tangible investment in local resilience and community-driven solutions.

Creating Safe Spaces for Children

As part of the initiative, a safe and well-equipped garden was established inside a local centre in Idlib, designed to offer an accessible environment for recreational and educational activities.

“This achievement is a crucial step in supporting children’s integration, promoting their psychological well-being, and addressing developmental needs.”

Ceremony Highlights

The closing ceremony showcased:

• Achievements and success stories of the project, reflecting its impact on both children and volunteers.
• A practical workshop that laid the groundwork for a research paper on the current state of special education in the region, identifying challenges and pathways for improvement.
• A children’s awareness play, creatively underlining the importance of inclusive care and early intervention.
• An honouring ceremony for volunteers, recognising their field efforts, commitment, and compassion in supporting the most vulnerable.

Towards a Better Future

This initiative stands out as a pioneering model in northwestern Syria, offering not only direct support to children with special needs but also contributing to raising awareness within the wider community. By promoting early intervention as an essential tool in education and social inclusion, the “Safe Point” project has become a symbol of hope for building a more supportive and inclusive future.

Reported:
Ahmed Mowas
IHRC Press Journalist

The post 🎓 Closing of the “Safe Point” Project in Idlib first appeared on ihrc.news.

One of the Most Serious Violations in Syria in Recent Years

In what may be one of the most serious violations in Syria in recent years, 134 unidentified bodies were buried in mass graves in the southern province of As-Suwayda. The burials were carried out without proper identification or documentation and under total security lockdown, raising widespread concern and strong suspicions of hidden crimes.

Night Burial and Complete Secrecy

The bodies were transported to an undisclosed location on the outskirts of As-Suwayda and buried in deep trenches using heavy machinery, under tight security imposed by the Al-Hijri militia. According to local sources, all forms of photography were strictly prohibited, and no independent, medical, or media observers were allowed near the site.

Victims Include Women, Children, and the Elderly

Eyewitnesses reported that the deceased included women, children, and elderly individuals, some of whom showed signs of burning, mutilation, or decapitation. No official information was released about the identities of the victims or the circumstances of their deaths. It is believed that the bodies belong to members of government security and army forces, as well as individuals from the Bedouin tribes and some residents of the city of As-Suwayda.

Mass Graves Similar to “Najha”

The burial process and its secrecy resemble the infamous “Najha mass graves,” which were previously linked to unlawful executions and enforced disappearances, built by the fallen Assad regime. The events in As-Suwayda raise serious fears that similar mass atrocities are being repeated without accountability.

Urgent International Investigation Demanded

In light of this disturbing incident, human rights organizations — including Taaluf Humanitaire International Organization — are calling for an urgent, independent international investigation to identify the victims, uncover the truth behind their deaths, and hold those responsible accountable. We specifically urge:

• International Human Rights Commission (IHRC)
• Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
• United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria
• International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)

to immediately deploy fact-finding missions and ensure that justice is not buried with the victims.

Conclusion

The secretive burial of such a large number of unidentified bodies without oversight constitutes a serious breach of international humanitarian and human rights law and may qualify as a crime against humanity. Silence in the face of such violations is a form of complicity. The international community must act swiftly to expose the truth and restore dignity to the victims.

Reported:
Ahmed Mowas
IHRC News Journalist

The post 🕯️ Mass Burial of 134 Unidentified Bodies in As-Suwayda Amid Tight Security and Suspicions of Grave Violations first appeared on ihrc.news.

Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law in Southern Syria

IHRC NEWS draws attention to the latest wave of forced displacement targeting Bedouin tribes in the province of As-Suwayda, southern Syria. The actions, carried out by armed militias affiliated with Hikmat Al-Hijri—one of the prominent non-state actors in the region—constitute a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and the fundamental rights of civilian populations.

Documented Abuse and Civilian Suffering

According to credible reports and documentation by both local and international human rights organizations, the displacement campaign was marked by disturbing acts of violence against civilians, including women and children. Eyewitnesses and humanitarian monitors have confirmed instances of brutal beatings, with victims displaying visible injuries—particularly women and children—underscoring the excessive use of force by the militias.

Detainees Released After International Mediation

The release of several detainees occurred only after a complex mediation process, involving guarantees from the Syrian government, as well as international actors including the United States, Jordan, and Turkey. This intervention highlights the gravity of the crisis and the breakdown of rule of law in the affected region.

A Grave Breach of the Geneva Conventions

The forced displacement of civilians, accompanied by violence and intimidation, constitutes a war crime under international law. The Geneva Conventions explicitly prohibit the forced transfer or evacuation of civilian populations, except for their own security in situations of imminent danger. The actions in As-Suwayda represent a severe breach of these international norms.

Urgent Calls for Accountability and Redress

IHRC NEWS echoes the urgent demands of human rights organizations—including Taaluf Humanitaire International Organization—for an independent and transparent investigation under United Nations supervision. The perpetrators must be held accountable, sanctions must be imposed, and the safe return and compensation of displaced families must be ensured.

Syria at a Crossroads

The situation in As-Suwayda, Syria, stands as a critical test for the international community. Ongoing silence and inaction will only embolden further violations and deepen the humanitarian crisis. Justice, accountability, and protection for the displaced remain non-negotiable priorities.

Report prepared with reference to documentation by Taaluf Humanitaire International Organization – Human Rights Office. For IHRC NEWS.

The post 📰 IHRC NEWS | Special Human Rights ReportForced Displacement of Bedouin Tribes in Syria’s As-Suwayda by Al-Hijri Militias first appeared on ihrc.news.

Sweida, Syria | July 17, 2025

Editorial Note (IHRC News):
In response to alarming reports from the Sweida region in Syria, we publish below the full official text of the report submitted by Taaluf Humanitaire International Organization – Human Rights Office, addressed to the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC). The following document is presented as received, without editorial changes.

Human Rights Report Issued by Taaluf Humanitaire International Organization – Addressed to IHRC

Report Title:
Suspected Acts of Ethnic Cleansing in Sweida, Syria: An Urgent Call for International Investigation

Sweida, Syria | July 17, 2025

Taaluf Humanitaire International Organization expresses deep concern over credible reports emerging from the Bedouin-populated areas of Sweida countryside, indicating grave human rights violations. These include the beheading of women and children, brutal killings, and the forced displacement of over 1,500 individuals, according to eyewitness accounts and local human rights organizations.

The nature and pattern of these acts suggest systematic retaliatory violence carried out by armed groups operating outside the law, deliberately targeting a specific community based on ethnic or social identity, in blatant violation of core principles of international humanitarian law.

The organization believes that these acts may constitute crimes of ethnic cleansing, falling under Article 7 of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, which defines the systematic persecution of a group based on identity as a crime against humanity.

Taaluf Humanitaire International Organization calls for:

1. An urgent and transparent international investigation led by the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria.
2. Deployment of a fact-finding mission to document the violations and identify perpetrators.
3. Immediate humanitarian support for displaced individuals and victims, with guarantees for their safety and protection.
4. Accountability for perpetrators in accordance with international law.
5. A reminder that silence in the face of such crimes amounts to complicity. An effective international response is urgently needed to protect civilians and prevent further atrocities.

Human dignity is a red line.

Taaluf Humanitaire International Organization – Human Rights Office

IHRC News has not altered the content of this report. The document represents the official position of Taaluf Humanitaire International Organization.

The post 🛑 Suspected Acts of Ethnic Cleansing in Sweida, Syria first appeared on ihrc.news.

Thousands of Families at Risk as Syrian and Turkish Teams Battle Blazes

July 2025, Latakia, Syria

Escalating Wildfire Crisis Threatens Communities in Syria

Northern Latakia’s forests in Syria are currently facing one of the most devastating wildfire outbreaks in recent years. Raging flames continue to consume vast expanses of dense woodland, advancing perilously close to nearby villages and homes. The situation places thousands of residents at immediate risk, raising serious humanitarian and environmental concerns.

Extreme Weather and Challenging Terrain Hinder Containment

The fires, which began several days ago, have intensified due to strong eastern winds and extreme heat, accelerating the spread of the blaze. Field sources confirm that dozens of hectares have been destroyed and numerous families have already been forced to evacuate their homes.
Efforts to contain the disaster are ongoing:

• Syrian Civil Defense teams and
• Turkish firefighting units (deployed via emergency coordination)
  battle the blaze daily.
  However, the mountainous terrain and restricted access to many fire zones render effective containment almost impossible without substantial aerial support.

Humanitarian Appeal and International Mobilisation

“The environmental and humanitarian disaster caused by these fires exceeds local response capacity. Immediate international support is essential.”
— Taaluf Humanitaire International (via press appeal)

Local communities have issued urgent calls for help, expressing fears over the potential loss of homes and livelihoods. Official authorities continue to assess the scale of destruction and prioritise the most urgent needs.
Taaluf Humanitaire International, in cooperation with civil society organisations across Syria, has formally appealed to the international community and humanitarian agencies for immediate logistical and relief assistance.

Potential for Widespread Catastrophe

The risk remains acute: if the fires persist unchecked, there is significant concern that the crisis could escalate into a broader catastrophe, potentially impacting densely populated areas and inflicting severe damage on the rich biodiversity of Syria’s coastal forests.

Author:
Ahmed Mowas
IHRC Press Journalist

The post 🔥 Catastrophic Wildfires Ravage Northern Latakia first appeared on ihrc.news.