Prisoners’ Affairs Office in the Syrian Democratic Alliance
The Prisoners’ Affairs Office within the Syrian Democratic Alliance is dedicated to addressing issues related to detainees, the forcibly disappeared, and those who have been abducted. The office also contributes to broader human rights initiatives. It operates as part of the alliance’s structure and not as an independent entity.
Office Responsibilities:
The Prisoners’ Affairs Office undertakes a variety of tasks that support the Syrian Democratic Alliance’s human rights objectives, including:
- Documenting cases of detainees and establishing a comprehensive database for engagement with relevant authorities.
- Coordinating with international organizations and civil society groups concerned with detainee issues.
- Gathering information from families of detainees to document cases and support advocacy efforts.
- Providing material and psychological support to the families of victims, including organizing mental health support sessions.
Achievements of the Prisoners’ Affairs Office:
Despite challenges, the office has made significant progress in documenting detainee and missing persons cases, including:
- Recording numerous detainee cases involving the regime, ISIS, and de facto authorities.
- Building partnerships with international and local organizations, such as the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, Amnesty International, and the International Commission on Missing Persons.
- Organizing workshops in collaboration with the Human Rights Lab in Lebanon on enforced disappearances in Syria.
- Advocating for specific detainee issues and participating in international events condemning violations against detainees.
Challenges Faced by the Prisoners’ Affairs Office:
Like many of the alliance’s offices, the Prisoners’ Affairs Office faces logistical and financial obstacles that hinder the expansion of its activities. For example, the office lacks sufficient technological equipment for efficient documentation and online activities, forcing reliance on traditional methods, which could result in data loss or damage.
Contribution to the Syrian Democratic Alliance’s Goals:
The office plays a crucial role in achieving the broader objectives of the Syrian Democratic Alliance by bringing attention to the detainee issue and using it as a political and media pressure point. Its visits to families and communication with local stakeholders help raise awareness at both the national and international levels.
Future Plans for the Office:
The Prisoners’ Affairs Office aims to enhance its capacity and expand its activities by:
- Creating an online platform and social media presence to facilitate communication and share visual reports on detainee issues.
- Increasing efforts to provide psychological support to survivors and families of detainees.
- Strengthening collaboration with international and local organizations to improve cooperation in addressing these issues.
Through these efforts, the Prisoners’ Affairs Office remains a vital part of the Syrian Democratic Alliance, continuing its work to highlight detainee issues and provide support to their families within the limits of available resources.
For any inquiries or questions regarding the office and its operations, please contact:
info@syrianda.org