Position statementPublished on 11 December 2024

Statement Syria

The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) monitors the political and social situation abroad and issues specific position statements. The FDFA's positions are guided by the objectives, and priorities of Swiss foreign policy as set out, for example, in the Federal Constitution, the Federal Council's foreign policy strategy, and other thematic and geographical strategies.

After rebel groups overthrew the government in Syria on 7 December 2024, the situation in the country is uncertain. — © FDFA

Over the weekend of December 7, 2024, the Syrian government led by Bashar al-Assad was over-thrown by various rebel groups under the leadership of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. The situation remains uncertain, and a deterioration in security conditions is possible at any time.

Switzerland is closely monitoring developments following the overthrow of Syrian President Assad on December 7. It supports the aspirations of the Syrian people to live in freedom, security, and dignity. Switzerland calls on all parties to respect international humanitarian law and human rights, particularly to protect the civilian population and to work towards peace and reconciliation. It also urges all states to respect international law, including Syria's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

A nationwide ceasefire is a key prerequisite for any political transition. Switzerland calls on all actors to maintain state institutions and public order. It supports the efforts of the UN Special Envoy for Syria towards a prompt, peaceful, and orderly political transition process, in accordance with the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 2254. This process must be inclusive, protect the rights of women and minorities, and pave the way for a democratic and stable future, decided and supported by the entire Syrian population.

Humanitarian Situation

After 13 years of conflict, Syria remains deeply scarred by the consequences of the civil war. The humanitarian situation for the civilian population is catastrophic. Switzerland remains concerned about this situation and the growing need for humanitarian assistance in the country. It calls on all parties involved to ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure. Switzerland continues to provide aid tailored to the needs of the Syrian population across the country and is ready to respond to new needs arising from the current situation. It remains committed to ensuring swift, safe, and unhindered access to humanitarian aid for those in need throughout Syrian territory. On December 9, Switzerland announced an additional CHF 2 million in humanitarian funding for emergency aid in Syria.

Questions and answers

• Will Switzerland offer its good offices to the parties?

  Switzerland is prepared to offer its good offices to facilitate any talks. Switzerland is in regular contact with the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy. For further information on the prospect of talks, please refer to the Office of the Special Envoy.

• What is Switzerland's stance on Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)? Will it recognize HTS as a government?

  Switzerland recognizes only states, not governments.
  The organization Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), formerly known as the Al-Nusra Front, is listed under the UN ISIL (Da’esh)/Al-Qaeda sanctions regime (Resolution 1267) and is designated as a terrorist organization by the Security Council. Switzerland implements the corresponding sanctions, and any changes made by the Security Council to its sanctions lists are automatically adopted.

  The 1267 sanctions regime, like all UN sanctions regimes, provides exceptions for humanitarian activities. These exceptions were indefinitely extended through an unanimously adopted UN Security Council resolution (Res. 2761) on December 6.

• Does Switzerland have an embassy in Syria?

  Switzerland does not maintain a diplomatic mission in Syria. Since March 2022, diplomatic affairs and consular services have been handled by the Swiss Embassy in Beirut. The FDFA is represented in Syria by a humanitarian office of the SDC, which remains operational. All FDFA staff in Syria are safe.

• How many Swiss citizens are currently in Syria?

  As of December 10 at 9:00 a.m., approximately 60 people were registered in the Swiss Abroad Registry for Syria. Fewer than 5 individuals were registered on «Travel Admin» as travelers in transit. No requests for consular assistance have been received. The FDFA helpline for Syria has not reported any calls.

  The FDFA is aware of three men and a woman with her child who are Swiss nationals and are being held by the Kurdish de facto authority in north-east Syria. The FDFA is not aware of any other Swiss nationals detained in Syria.

• Is the FDFA organizing an evacuation for Swiss citizens in Syria?

  The FDFA travel advisory for Syria reflects the current assessment of the security situation on the ground. Since April 27, 2011, the FDFA has generally advised against travel to and any stays in Syria for any purpose. The principles of individual responsibility and subsidiarity, as outlined in the Swiss Abroad Act, apply. The decision to leave Syria is voluntary, at one’s own risk, and at one’s own expense. The FDFA does not organize collective evacuations.

• Do Syrian refugees in Switzerland have to return to Syria?

  This issue falls under the authority of the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM). Currently, no forced returns to Syria are taking place. For Switzerland, it is essential that any return to Syria occurs voluntarily, safely, and with dignity. On December 9, 2024, the SEM decided to immediately suspend asylum procedures and decisions for Syrian asylum seekers. At present, the SEM cannot adequately assess whether asylum grounds are valid or whether a deportation is reasonable. This will only be possible once the situation in Syria can be reassessed.