Contemporary Conflicts and International Law: Syria – Conflict, Control, and Accountability in the Past, Present, and Future

Syria – Conflict, Control, and Accountability in the Past, Present, and Future

This session will examine recent developments in Syria, particularly after Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) gained control. We will discuss the development of political jihadism in HTS, and the challenges it presents to transitional justice, accountability, and the protection of civilian populations in post-conflict Syria. Special attention will be given to the relationship between de facto authorities and international law obligations, including the responsibility to protect civilians and ensure due process.

Additionally, students and staff will have an opportunity to discuss the prosecution of crimes committed in Syria by members of the Assad regime and non-state armed groups, incl the so-called Islamic State (ISIS). The session will explore how courts in France, Sweden, Germany, or the Netherlands have used universal jurisdiction to hold perpetrators accountable for torture, enforced disappearances, and other crimes against humanity and war crimes.

While the Contemporary Conflicts series focuses on the role of international law, we welcome students from all departments who are interested in these topics.

Speakers

This session will be led by experts from Essex Law School:

• Katya Al Khateeb is a Senior Research Officer at the Essex Human Rights Centre and Essex Law School. Her research interests are at the intersection of armed conflict and international law.
• Franziska Fluhr is a Research Officer at the Essex Armed Conflict and Crisis Hub and Essex Law School. Before joining Essex, she worked with the Syria Programme of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia in Beirut, Lebanon.
• Chair: Noam Lubell, Professor, Essex Law School.

How to join

Students and staff are welcome!
No need to book, please turn up.