Rebuilding Syria by Combating Christian Persecution: Ensuring STG Honors All Ethno-Religious Human Rights

In the rich tapestry of Syria’s diverse society, where Christians, Muslims, Druze, and other ethno-religious groups coexist, the persecution of Christians demands immediate action. Years of conflict under the Assad regime, followed by ongoing instability, have fueled sectarian tensions, leading to targeted violence, displacement, and eroded rights for Christian communities. As Syria navigates a transitional phase, protecting these Christian minorities is not just a moral duty but a critical step toward national reconciliation and stability. Ignoring this humanitarian crisis risks deepening divisions in a nation already scarred by civil war, where Christians, once over 10% of the population, have significantly declined due to persistent threats.

One key strategy is to tie sanctions relief to the Syrian Transitional Government’s (STG) apparent commitment to upholding human rights for all ethno-religious groups. By requiring the STG to ensure equal citizenship, enforce the rule of law, and hold perpetrators of violence accountable, the U.S. can incentivize meaningful reform. This approach builds on proven U.S. foreign aid policies that link assistance to human rights progress, delivering results in fragile states. For Syrian Christians facing discrimination and attacks, such conditional diplomacy could secure their rights and safety, fostering trust in a diverse nation where unity is essential for rebuilding.

Equally urgent is the reform and professionalization of Syria’s national security forces to root out extremist elements and promote inclusivity. The U.S. should advocate for sweeping reform, including transparent command structures with representation from religious and ethnic minorities. Transforming these forces into a stabilizing institution, rather than a source of oppression, can prevent sectarian fragmentation and promote equal citizenship. Lessons from U.S.-backed security reforms in Iraq, Liberia, and Bosnia show that inclusive, human rights-respecting forces are vital for long-term national stability and minority protection. In Syria’s diverse landscape, ensuring Christian and minority participation in security institutions would build stability across communities.

The U.S. should bolster support for independent human rights documentation, transitional justice initiatives, and religious freedom monitoring in Syria. Accountability starts with transparency, and U.S.-supported programs in Iraq and Sudan have proven effective in strengthening justice mechanisms. Applying similar efforts in Syria would help document abuses against Christians and other minorities, raise awareness, and ensure perpetrators face justice. These steps would build trust among communities, reinforce the rule of law, and lay the foundation for a diverse Syria where all citizens are protected. The time to act is now—delaying risks further erosion of Syria’s rich heritage and stability.