
UN Syria envoy: ‘fragile’ moment in transition process
The UN special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, warned of grave consequences for the country’s future without genuine political inclusion and urgent economic support for a successful political transition. During a briefing to the Security Council, Pedersen noted the legacies of misrule, conflict and exclusion in Syria, stating that “the situation is inherently still extremely fragile.” The new government announced by President Ahmad al-Sharaa in March is more diverse, but still includes one woman in the 22-member cabinet: Hind Kabawat, a Catholic, who was appointed as minister of Labor & Social Affairs. Recalling the recent violence in the coastal region, Pedersen urged the new government to ensure that all segments of Syrian society are protected, and to prevent individuals or groups from taking justice into their own hands or committing revenge-driven attacks. The statement noted that such sporadic incidents continue to be reported. (Photo: SANA)