A UN official reported no progress on a roadmap to restore order and repair relations in Syria's Sweida province, nearly a year after sectarian violence. Underlying issues remain unresolved, threatening Syria's unity.
The lack of progress in Sweida highlights ongoing instability and unresolved tensions in Syria, threatening the country's unity and hindering essential services like education. The stalled political transition further complicates efforts to establish lasting peace and security.
Efforts to stabilize southern Syria and repair divisions in the Druze-majority province of Sweida have stalled, according to a United Nations official. Nearly a year after deadly sectarian violence in July 2025, which resulted in over 1,700 deaths and potential war crimes, a government-led roadmap launched in September 2025 has seen no progress.
UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Claudio Cordone informed the Security Council that underlying issues remain unresolved, and calls for secession from some Druze factions threaten Syria's unity. Kidnappings and inter-factional rivalries continue to destabilize the province. Furthermore, 13,500 students in Sweida were unable to take national examinations due to failed mediation over location and security, marking the second consecutive year of missed exams for most students.
Syrian officials, including Sweida Governor Mustafa al-Bakour, blame Druze armed groups for hindering progress and the restoration of state institutions. However, Druze leaders argue they are protecting their community following last year's violence and accuse Damascus of eroding trust. Cordone also expressed concern over the delay in constituting Syria's transitional parliament, which has not been formed more than eight months after elections, generating anxiety.