Resolution 2254: A Path to Peace in Syria
Resolution 2254, adopted by the UN Security Council in December 2015, aimed to establish a framework for a political solution to the ongoing Syrian crisis, which began in 2011. The resolution called for the initiation of peace talks in January 2016, emphasizing that the future of Syria should be determined by its people. It proposed the formation of a transitional government and the holding of elections under UN supervision, alongside an immediate cessation of attacks against civilians.
Despite its ambitious goals, the resolution's provisions have not been fully implemented due to persistent disagreements among Syrian, regional, and international stakeholders, as well as ongoing hostilities. The resolution builds upon the 2012 Geneva Communiqué and the 2015 Vienna Communiqués, advocating for a political transition to end the conflict.
Key Provisions of Resolution 2254
The resolution outlines several critical components:
- Ceasefire: It calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Syria, excluding military operations against designated terrorist organizations such as the Islamic State and Al-Nusra Front.
- Political Process: It supports a Syrian-led political transition, urging negotiations between the Syrian government and opposition under UN auspices, with a timeline for forming a non-sectarian transitional government and conducting free elections.
- Constitutional Reform: A new constitution for Syria is to be drafted as part of the political transition process.
- Humanitarian Access: The resolution emphasizes the need for unrestricted humanitarian aid delivery and the safe return of displaced persons and refugees.
- Counter-Terrorism: It stresses the importance of intensified international efforts to combat terrorism in Syria.
Importance of Resolution 2254
Resolution 2254 represents a rare international consensus on addressing the complexities of the Syrian crisis. It underscores the necessity of a political solution as the only viable means to end the conflict, calling for confidence-building measures among all parties to enhance the prospects for a sustainable political process and a permanent ceasefire. The resolution's unanimous adoption by the Security Council reflects a collective commitment to support Syria in achieving a lasting peace.
