The Syrian Archive: Documenting Assad's Regime Crimes in Berlin
In a compelling report by the Italian newspaper "Corriere della Sera," the story of Hadi al-Khatib, a Syrian activist, unfolds as he continues his vital work from Berlin. Ten years ago, al-Khatib established the Syrian Archive, a project dedicated to collecting evidence of the crimes committed by Bashar al-Assad's regime. Following the recent developments in Syria, including the release of thousands of detainees, the archive is entering a new and significant phase.
The Syrian Archive has amassed a staggering collection of over 3.5 million video clips, with 650,000 processed and 8,249 verified. This extensive documentation serves as a crucial resource for human rights advocacy and has already influenced international actions, such as France's arrest warrant for Assad related to the Ghouta chemical attack. Al-Khatib emphasizes the importance of this archive, stating that it is the most comprehensive record of Assad's crimes, continuously updated to reflect the rapidly changing situation in Syria.
The apartment in Berlin, where the archive operates, has remained discreetly unmarked for security reasons, resembling a start-up office. Neighbors were unaware of the significant work being conducted within its walls. Al-Khatib describes the atmosphere as one of disbelief and hope, as the Syrian people witness the potential fall of a regime that has held power for over 50 years.
A Flood of Evidence and Hope for the Future
Recent documentation efforts have unveiled harrowing evidence, including footage of children born in prison and the chilling sight of shoes stacked in piles reminiscent of Nazi concentration camps. Al-Khatib and his team have worked tirelessly to capture and preserve this evidence, even as social media channels faced closures. The archive's methodology involves meticulous data collection, archiving, processing, and verification, ensuring that the truth about the regime's atrocities is preserved for future generations.
Despite the fears expressed by al-Khatib and his colleague Jalnar regarding the ongoing situation in Syria, they share a renewed sense of hope. For the first time, they feel that hope outweighs fear, as the Syrian people stand on the brink of potential change. The Syrian Archive not only serves as a testament to the past but also as a beacon for a future where justice may finally be served.
