Syria sets rules for licensing peaceful protests, outlines penalties

Syria’s Interior Ministry has issued new regulations governing the licensing of peaceful demonstrations, outlining procedures for organizers, responsibilities of authorities, and penalties for violations.

The ministry said the measures reaffirm the right to peaceful assembly while ensuring public order, safety and the protection of public and private property.

Under the new rules, organizers must form a committee of at least three members to submit a permit request to the relevant governorate. Applications are to be referred within 24 hours to a designated committee, which must issue a decision within five days. A lack of response within that period will be considered approval.

If a request is rejected, the decision must be justified, and organizers may appeal before the administrative court, which is required to issue a final ruling within one week.

The ministry said security authorities will provide protection for licensed demonstrations within legal limits, while organizers are responsible for maintaining order and complying with permit conditions.

The regulations prohibit participants from carrying weapons, whether licensed or not, and define sharp, piercing or blunt objects as weapons under the law.

Authorities may request organizers to end a demonstration if it violates permit conditions or disrupts public order. If necessary, security forces may disperse the gathering.

The ministry said demonstrations held without permits or in violation of approved conditions will be considered illegal and subject to penalties under the penal code.

The announcement comes as part of broader efforts to regulate public gatherings while maintaining stability and safeguarding civil rights.

IZ/A