Summary
The Syrian Identification Centre is working to identify people who disappeared during the regime of Bashar al-Assad. The process involves examining mass graves, with experts like Dr. Anas Hourani analyzing remains to figure out who these individuals were. The effort is slowed by a lack of DNA facilities and specialized staff.
Key Facts
- The Syrian Identification Centre is located in Damascus and contains remains from mass graves.
- Forced disappearances were a common occurrence under Bashar al-Assad's regime.
- After the regime fell in December 2024, efforts began to identify missing individuals.
- Dr. Anas Hourani, a forensic expert, leads the effort, which may take years to complete.
- There are as many as 66 mass graves in Syria, according to estimates.
- Around 30,000 detainees were released from prisons when the regime collapsed.
- Estimates of missing persons range from 100,000 to possibly 300,000.
- The absence of fully functioning DNA labs complicates the identification process.
