After more than 13 years of war and over 50 years of Assad rule, political events in Syria reached a turning point at the end of 2024. Since the overthrow of the dictatorial government by Islamist rebels, the population has been hoping for a new chapter of peace and freedom. Syria now faces the challenge of building a new state. At the same time, the political and humanitarian situation remains critical, with continued fighting and casualties. The civil war has both destroyed the country and left its society deeply scarred. How can justice and peace be established after decades of violence? Is Syria a ‘safe country‘ now that refugees can return to without risk? What is needed for a free and democratic future? And how can human rights be guaranteed? High-profile experts will discuss the opportunities and challenges on the path to a free Syria.

Welcome Notes

• Michael Lysander FREMUTH, Scientific Director, Ludwig Boltzmann Institute of Fundamental and Human Rights; Professor of Fundamental and Human Rights, University of Vienna

Keynote

• Peter KROIS, Diplomat, Federal Ministry of European and International Affairs; Former Head of Mission, Austrian Embassy Damascus

Panel Discussion

• Abdulhkeem ALSHATER, Co-Founder, Association of the Free Syrian Community Austria
• Frank HALDEMANN, Associated Researcher and Expert for Transitional Justice, Interdisciplinary Institute of Ethics and Human Rights, University of Fribourg
• Christoph PINTER, Head, UN High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) Austria
• Walter POSCH, Orientalist, Institute for Peacekeeping and Conflict Management, National Defence Academy, Federal Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Austria
• Banan SAKBANI, Law Student, Johannes Kepler University Linz; Author; Musician

Audience Discussion

Chair

• Rosa LYON, Journalist, ORF

Followed by: Reception

Further information can be found in the download area. Participation is free of charge, but we kindly ask you to register by Thursday, 24 April 2025, 12:00 noon.