Expressing grave concern that the Syrian conflict has entered its second decade, the HRC recalled statements made by the UN Secretary-General and the High Commissioner for Human Rights that potential crimes against humanity and war crimes may have been committed. The HRC also recalled that the Commission of Inquiry on Syria found reasonable grounds to believe that Syrian authorities continue to carry out a widespread or systematic attack against the civilian population, including a policy of involuntary or enforced disappearance perpetrated by the security forces in order to spread fear and punish dissent. Emphasizing the vital work of Syrian organizations of victims, survivors and families working on the issue of missing persons, the HRC expressed support for efforts to compile a comprehensive, transparent record of all casualties of the conflict; acknowledged the importance of the work of such organization in enabling urgent access to information about those missing and disappeared; and emphasized the need for accountability and justice for the victims and their families. The HRC further encouraged all member states, relevant UN bodies, international organizations and civil society to coordinate efforts and focus attention on the issue of missing persons in Syria. The resolution demanded that “the Syrian authorities meet their responsibility to Protect the Syrian population.”

The resolution was adopted by a vote of 26 in favor, 6 against and 15 abstentions.