While the Syrian regime attempts to promote the ongoing trials in Damascus as a response to international pressure or a step toward “transitional justice,” observers and human rights defenders view these events as nothing more than a “farce.” They argue that these proceedings aim to polish the authority’s image while stripping the concept of justice of its true meaning.
A Pivot Figure Speaks Out
Among the most prominent critics is Osama Uthman, a pivotal figure and one of the active faces behind the “Caesar Files.” These leaked photographs exposed to the world the staggering scale of crimes and torture within Syrian detention centers.
Uthman wrote on his personal page, describing the ongoing events:
“From the trial of the century to a farce… Who is judging whom? The mockery taking place today in Damascus is not a passing event to be dismissed as a ‘trend’ to distract people for a few days from a deteriorating economic and security reality. Rather, it is an attempt to empty justice of its substance. It is political propaganda managed in the name of justice—a means to dilute a cause as massive as the sacrifices Syrians continue to make to this day.”
Warnings of “Implicit Recognition”
Uthman warned that focusing on superficial criticisms of these trials might lead to an implicit recognition of their legitimacy. He emphasized that these procedures do not meet the minimum standards of justice, calling them “corrupt trials intended neither to reveal the truth nor to hold criminals accountable.”
Uthman is well-known for his tireless efforts in documenting violations and pursuing perpetrators in international forums. This role makes him a decisive voice in exposing the falsehood of the sham trials being conducted domestically.
The Three Pillars: Absent Conditions of Justice
Uthman maintains that true justice requires clear conditions that are entirely absent from the current authority’s “theatrical plays.” He summarized these into three key pillars:
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An Independent Judiciary: One that is not subject to political or security dictates.
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Deterrent Laws: Legislation that criminalizes grave offenses such as war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity.
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The Removal of Immunities: Ensuring the entire chain of command is held accountable, stripping immunities from every political, security, or military position—whether past or present.
Uthman concluded by affirming that these trials, regardless of the media hype surrounding them, will not close the door on accountability nor prevent international legal prosecutions. He stressed that Syrians are waiting for a justice that honors their sacrifices and brings a definitive end to impunity.