Syria today stands at a pivotal moment in its history, a moment achieved through the immense sacrifices of its people, who have strived to keep Syria united and to rebuild it as a state founded on law and institutions—a state of citizenship, participation, justice, and freedoms that embraces all Syrians, regardless of their differences.
Over the past years, civil society, with its organizations and activists across Syrian territories and in the diaspora, has borne the responsibility of championing the Syrian cause in international forums. It has endeavored to rise to the level of responsibility it chose for itself, confronting numerous challenges, marginalization, and intimidation in the process.
Today, guided by our responsibility at this historic juncture we have long dreamed of, and driven by our belief in the role that awaits us alongside all Syrians who have sacrificed, endured, and held steadfast to their vision of ending tyranny, we are compelled to raise our voices. We must safeguard the achievements of civil society, built on its accumulated maturity, experience, and expertise, its deep connection to local communities, and its adaptability in overcoming barriers and divisions previously thought insurmountable.
Preserving state institutions, ensuring their seamless operation, and maintaining service delivery within a secure and supportive environment is fundamental to reinforcing the civil role. This must be accompanied by facilitating the free work of organizations and activists, fostering communication between local communities and emerging authorities, and ensuring protection against any violations or harassment. This requires addressing, with genuine seriousness, the fears and divisions instilled by the former regime among the people, offering reassurances through words and actions, and preventing any tensions that could divert us from our goal of building the Syria we envision.
We, the undersigned organizations and activists from Syrian civil society, join our fellow Syrians—men and women—in celebrating the realization of this shared dream. We view positively all measures and actions taken to prevent bloodshed, preserve institutions and properties, and maintain the unity of Syrians without exclusion, intimidation, or accusations of treason. We pledge to support, to the best of our ability, every step that builds on what has been achieved and addresses any violations that have arisen. This effort demands that all supporters of Syria and its people rise to the occasion, recognizing Syrian civil society as a genuine opportunity and a key player in Syria’s future. We have consistently demonstrated that we do not wait for opportunities to be given but work tirelessly to earn our presence and legitimacy locally, nationally, and internationally.
May God protect Syria and its people—united, free, independent, and proud.
