ICRD Seminar: Protection of Syrian Civilians – 11 July 2018

According to Home Office immigration statistics, 11,649 Syrian nationals had been resettled in the UK under the Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme (VPRS) by the end of March 2018. In addition, in the same period 6,196 of asylum applicants and their dependents were granted asylum.

The VPRS and applications for asylum on reaching the UK are the two main routes for Syrians to seek refuge in the UK as a means of protection from the ongoing conflict in Syria. Rather than accepting more refugees, the UK has so far preferred to provide humanitarian support to those in need within Syria. However, the complications associated with humanitarian distribution render the question of whether this is the best approach. Furthermore, foreign intervention within the complex conflict dynamic have had a profound impact on civilians within the country. And should a political settlement eventually occur, will it still be safe for those who have fled to return?

The International Centre for Relations & Diplomacy (ICRD) is pleased to organise a panel discussion that will look at these key issues and towards formulating a comprehensive strategy towards the protection of civilians in Syria.

The event will be hosted by Angus MacNeil MP (SNP) and will take place in Parliament Committee Room 9, 5.00-6.30pm.

Speakers

Angus MacNeil MP
MP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar in 2005 and Chair of the International Trade Select Committee and SNP Deputy Foreign Affairs Spokesman.
Chair

Sophia Akram
Researcher, ICRD
Towards a comprehensive strategy on the protection of civilians in Syria

Hussam Eesa
Raqqa is Being Slaughtered Silently
Realities on the ground

Dr. Wael Aleji
Director, Syrian Network for Human Rights
Human rights abuses facing Syrian civilians

Dr. Zara Ramsay
Lecturer in International Development Studies, University of Portsmouth
Factoring in Violence Against Women (VAW) when talking about civilian protection

Sarah Pritchett
Spokesperson, Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor
International legal pathways to policy and the adherence of international law

Mohammed Ateek
Director, Syria Solidarity Campaign
Centring Syrian voices in strategies