Moscow’s proposed draft constitution for Syria Is problematic
The constitution proposed by Russia for Syria is raising a storm in media. Not only the opposition but governmental circles are discussing it and many forums are endlessly debating its 85 controversial articles. Some Syrians feel insulted by a charter authored by one outside power and approved by two others, Turkey and Iran.
The Russian Constitution itself favors executive power over the legislative, judicial and prosecutorial branches, so how can it possibly help the parties to the Syrian conflict to find openings for dialogue? The international community should provide the basic constitutional principles needed to achieve permanent peace and development for the peoples of the world, including the universal values of freedom, democracy, human rights and rule of law, with the heads of the four-branches popularly elected. Syria must have a constitution that will bring stability and serve as a model for peaceful development. See the Charter for Permanent Peace and Development.