Syrian Bar Association Addresses Legal Gaps in Child Protection
The Syrian Bar Association held a high-level discussion in Damascus this Wednesday, focusing on the critical need to identify and bridge legal gaps regarding the protection of children in Syria. The panel, titled “Child Rights in Syria: Legal Challenges and Required Legislative Amendments,” brought together legal professionals to evaluate the efficacy of current laws and propose necessary adjustments to meet modern social requirements.
Participants addressed a broad spectrum of issues, including civil registration and paternity verification, the fight against child violence, child labor, and the dangers associated with digital exposure. A key focus was placed on the ongoing challenges surrounding the marriage of minors, an issue that participants argued requires a more robust and unified legal framework to protect the fundamental rights of children.
The discussion highlighted the importance of existing legislation, such as the Child Rights Law No. 21 of 2021, as well as provisions within the penal, labor, and personal status codes. Experts emphasized that the integration of principles from the Convention on the Rights of the Child into the national Syrian legal system is essential to ensure that domestic laws remain consistent with international standards for child welfare.
Member of the Bar Association Council, lawyer Rahada Abdoush, noted that the workshop serves as a platform for legal experts to scrutinize current regulations and identify where legislative changes are needed. She explained that the goal is not merely to diagnose existing problems but to produce practical, actionable recommendations. The outcomes of the session will be synthesized into formal proposals to be submitted to the relevant authorities, with the objective of creating a more effective and comprehensive protection system for children across the country.
Echoing this sentiment, Malak Al-Dabash, a member of the Women’s Committee, highlighted that the protection of children requires more than just updated statutes; it necessitates a cohesive, collaborative effort between the judiciary, executive branches, and key institutions in the education and health sectors. She stated that the session specifically addressed issues related to custody, guardianship, and domestic violence, with a firm focus on the child’s best interests.
This initiative aligns with a broader national effort, as the Ministry of Justice continues to prioritize child protection as a central component of its institutional agenda. Justice Minister Mazhar Al-Wais recently underscored that building a child-friendly justice system is considered a vital investment in the future of Syrian society and a cornerstone for strengthening the rule of law. By addressing these legislative complexities, the legal community aims to establish a more secure and nurturing environment for children, ensuring their rights to survival, development, and active participation in society.
