United Nations Security Council Resolution 2319

On November 19, 2016, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) unanimously adopted Resolution 2319, a significant measure addressing the ongoing conflict in Syria, particularly focusing on the use of chemical weapons. This resolution was part of the international community’s efforts to respond to the humanitarian crisis and violations of international law occurring during the Syrian Civil War.

Context Leading to the Resolution

The Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011, had seen numerous reports of chemical weapons being used against civilians, a grave violation of international norms and treaties such as the Chemical Weapons Convention. The use of such weapons had been confirmed by various international bodies, including the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and the United Nations.

Prior to Resolution 2319, the UNSC had passed several resolutions aimed at addressing the Syrian conflict and the use of chemical weapons, including Resolution 2118 in 2013, which required Syria to destroy its chemical weapons stockpiles. Despite these efforts, reports of chemical attacks continued, prompting further international condemnation and the need for additional measures.

Key Provisions of Resolution 2319

Resolution 2319 was adopted unanimously, reflecting a rare moment of consensus among the Security Council’s permanent members, who often had divergent views on the Syrian conflict. The resolution:

• Condemned the Use of Chemical Weapons: It unequivocally condemned any use of chemical weapons in Syria, regardless of the perpetrator.
• Called for Accountability: The resolution emphasized the need for accountability for those responsible for chemical attacks, urging all parties to cooperate with investigations.
• Supported Ongoing Investigations: It extended the mandate of the OPCW-UN Joint Investigative Mechanism (JIM), which was tasked with identifying the perpetrators of chemical attacks in Syria.

Significance and Aftermath

Resolution 2319 was a critical step in the international community’s efforts to address the use of chemical weapons in Syria. By extending the mandate of the JIM, it reinforced the commitment to identifying and holding accountable those responsible for chemical attacks.

However, despite the resolution and ongoing investigations, challenges remained in enforcing accountability due to geopolitical tensions and the complex nature of the Syrian conflict. The resolution underscored the importance of international cooperation in upholding international law and protecting civilians from the horrors of chemical warfare.

In the broader historical context, Resolution 2319 highlighted the persistent challenges faced by the international community in addressing violations of international norms during conflicts and the need for continued vigilance and cooperation to prevent the use of weapons of mass destruction.