Statement 

by the Delegation of Ukraine at the informal meeting 

of the United Nations General Assembly convened to hear a briefing 

from Ms. Karla Quintana, Head of the Independent Institution 

on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic 

(22 July 2026)

Madam President,

Ukraine aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union and wishes to add the following.

We thank Ms. Karla Quintana for her update on the work of the Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic (IIMP). At this critical juncture for Syria, the Institution continues to play an important role in addressing the fate and whereabouts of missing persons and supporting victims, survivors and their families.

This issue has deep resonance for Ukraine. We continue to search for thousands of our citizens who have been forcibly disappeared, unlawfully deported or remain missing as a result of Russia's armed aggression against Ukraine since 2014. We therefore understand all too well the anguish of not knowing and the importance of a credible and effective mechanism for establishing the truth and advancing justice and accountability.

Ukraine firmly supports all efforts aimed at establishing the truth about missing persons in Syria, preserving relevant information and evidence, and ensuring adequate support for victims, survivors and their families. Their rights and dignity must remain at the centre of all efforts, while accountability for serious violations of international law is essential for achieving justice and reconciliation.

We recognize the important role of Syria’s National Commission for Missing Persons and encourage continued cooperation between national institutions, the IIMP and other relevant United Nations mechanisms. Complementary efforts, based on a victim-centred approach and the full, equal and meaningful participation of victims, survivors and their families, are crucial to advancing truth, justice and accountability.

Distinguished delegates,

Ukraine reaffirms its unwavering support for the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic. We support a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned, inclusive political transition that upholds human rights and fundamental freedoms, ensures accountability and contributes to a peaceful, stable and dignified future for all Syrians.

We stand in solidarity with all families of missing persons in Syria and remain committed to supporting efforts to uphold their right to truth and justice.

Thank you.