Recent reporting makes serious assertions about the role and responsibility of SOS CVI in relation to events in Syria, only based on conjectures, and none verified facts or statements. We believe that many of these assertions present a selective and misleading picture of complex events that occurred during a brutal civil war.
SOS CVI commissioned an independent investigation precisely to establish the facts and clarify institutional responsibility. SOS CVI subsequently sought independent legal advice regarding the investigation, and the review remains ongoing. Relevant materials are being submitted to the judicial authorities, with whom we will cooperate fully.
We take note of the decisions by a few member associations to leave the federation. At the same time, our recent General Assembly demonstrated a strong sense of unity, solidarity and shared purpose, as we continue to move forward together and welcome new members into our federation.
It is important that questions of responsibility are determined based on verified evidence relating to the actions of the individuals and organisations concerned. In this context, any allegations should not be presented as established facts while these matters remain under examination.
Based on the information currently available to us, personnel working on the ground sought to provide care and protection to children in the extraordinarily difficult conditions prevailing in Syria at the time. All actions of organizations operating in conflict settings must be assessed in the context of these extraordinarily complex circumstances, and on the basis of the legal and factual constraints they face. Any assessment of actions and institutional responsibility must be grounded in established facts and take full account of the circumstances at the time.
At the same time, we recognize the profound impact these events have had on affected children and families. Our focus remains on their well-being, on establishing the facts, and on determining appropriate support. Providing assistance requires legal and practical coordination with the relevant parties, and we remain committed to pursuing this responsibly. Under the current leadership, significant efforts have been made to trace children and to continue supporting them and their families in Syria. Of the 140 children concerned, 124 have now been confirmed to be with their families. Efforts to trace the remaining children continue in close cooperation with the relevant authorities and partners.
SOS CVI will continue to cooperate with the authorities, support necessary review and due process, and share findings responsibly. Our priority remains the well-being of the children and their families.