In this episode, Justice Richard Goldstone recounts his remarkable journey from working within the South African justice system to dismantle apartheid to serving as the first Chief Prosecutor for the International Criminal Tribunals for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and Rwanda (ICTR). He delves into the challenges of pursuing justice amid political resistance, from using judicial discretion to challenge oppressive laws and expose state-sponsored violence, to navigating the complexities of UN bureaucracy and funding constraints. Goldstone reflects on the groundbreaking impact of the ICTY on international law, including advancements in prosecuting gender-based crimes, and the enduring tension between peace and justice. His insights underscore the critical connection between justice, accountability, and sustainable peace.

In this episode, Hind Kabawat shares her recent experiences returning to Damascus after 14 years, reflecting on a nation scarred by war yet brimming with hope. Hind, a key figure in Syrian peace negotiations and a staunch advocate for women's inclusion, discusses the vital role women play in shaping Syria's future. From leading educational initiatives in refugee camps to advocating for transitional justice, Syrian women are rewriting their narrative as changemakers, not bystanders.

Hind delves into the challenges and opportunities of a future Syrian National Dialogue, highlighting the importance of gender equality, trust-building, and inclusive representation to ensure a sustainable peace. She emphasizes that women must be at the forefront—crafting policy, driving justice, and fostering dialogue—so Syria can achieve lasting stability.

Tune in to hear Hind's powerful insights on how Syrian women are leading the charge for justice, reconstruction, and a brighter future, proving that resilience and hope are unyielding forces in the face of adversity.

This episode is part of our Post-Assad Syria mini-series, where we speak with experts deeply involved in Syria’s peace processes. Together, we’ll reflect on lessons learned, explore the nation’s crossroads, and discuss how to seize this moment of change for a brighter future.

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Syria has entered a transformative moment. After over a decade of devastating civil war, the Assad regime has been overthrown, marking a seismic shift in the nation's trajectory. While this moment brings immense hope, it also presents profound challenges—rebuilding communities, addressing sectarian divides, and navigating the complexities of international dynamics.

In our latest mini-series, the Lawyering Peace Podcast dives into this pivotal moment for Syria. Through in-depth conversations with experts deeply involved in Syria’s peace processes, we reflect on lessons learned, explore the nation’s crossroads, and discuss what it takes to turn this moment of change into a foundation for lasting peace.

In this episode of the Lawyering Peace podcast’s Post-Assad Syria Mini-Series, Syrian intellectual and activist Ammar Abdulhamid offers an in-depth analysis of Syria’s transitional moment and the challenges ahead. Drawing on decades of advocacy for democratic reform and his experience briefing world leaders, Ammar discusses the current sentiment on the ground, the promise of a resurgent civil society, and the critical role of governance.

He highlights the importance of fostering inclusivity amidst Syria's rich religious and cultural diversity, the necessity for international partners to listen to local voices, and the delicate balancing act facing new leadership. Ammar also outlines the opportunities for the U.S. and its allies to support this transition and examines the lessons Syria can draw from past Arab Spring movements.

Tune in for a nuanced perspective on Syria’s complex political and societal dynamics, the role of civil society, and the international community’s path to meaningful engagement.

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Syria has entered a transformative moment. After over a decade of devastating civil war, the Assad regime has been overthrown, marking a seismic shift in the nation's trajectory. While this moment brings immense hope, it also presents profound challenges—rebuilding communities, addressing sectarian divides, and navigating the complexities of international dynamics.

In our latest mini-series, the Lawyering Peace Podcast dives into this pivotal moment for Syria. Through in-depth conversations with experts deeply involved in Syria’s peace processes, we reflect on lessons learned, explore the nation’s crossroads, and discuss what it takes to turn this moment of change into a foundation for lasting peace.