Amnesty International urges Syria to abolish death penalty for Bashar Assad

Amnesty International has urged Syria to abolish the death penalty for President Bashar Assad following a groundbreaking in absentia judgment. This marks the first such case issued by Syria's transitional authorities against the trio of Bashar Assad, Maher Assad, and Atef Najib. The organization highlighted the importance of ending trials absentia and the use of capital punishment, along with reforming the judicial system to ensure fair trials and adherence to international law.

Amnesty stressed that bringing those responsible for crimes committed under Assad's regime to justice is crucial for achieving justice, transparency, and reparations for victims. This process should take place in regular civilian courts with victim participation, refraining from employing the death penalty. Furthermore, Amnesty called for the criminalization of core international crimes within national legislation and for prosecutions to be an integral part of a comprehensive, victim-centered national strategy.