Syria’s Assembly Prepares to Repeal Terrorism Court and Adjust Pension Laws

Syria’s People’s Assembly is scheduled to convene for the third session of its first special term on Sunday, September 13, 2026. According to reports from GN geopolitics/terror (en-US), the legislative agenda includes a formal discussion of a resignation request submitted by member Modar Hamdan, who cited sustained online defamation as the primary driver for his departure. The session will also serve as a platform for deliberating three draft laws referred by the presidency, which aim to align the legal framework with the principles of the constitutional declaration and transitional justice.

These legislative moves are framed as part of a broader effort to address the lasting effects of exceptional laws issued under the previous regime. By proposing amendments to pension rights, the handling of confiscated property, and the structure of judicial bodies, the Assembly seeks to ensure that legal mechanisms protect individual rights while maintaining the integrity of the legislative institution.

Hamdan Cites Defamation in Resignation

Member Modar Hamdan addressed his resignation request to the Assembly Speaker last August, stating that his decision was voluntary and responsible. In his submission, Hamdan described the situation as a result of unjust and systematic online campaigns that targeted his reputation and integrity. He characterized the accusations against him as fabricated slander and false lies, arguing that the continued controversy surrounding his presence in the chamber could negatively impact the work of the People’s Assembly and its legislative mission.

Hamdan expressed concern that the charged atmosphere and ongoing bickering were unbecoming of the stature of the legislative body. He emphasized that continuing to carry out his parliamentary duties effectively had become difficult under these circumstances. Despite his departure, he expressed hope that the Assembly would remain a beacon of seriousness and constructive work, wishing his colleagues success in guiding the nation toward stability and safe shores.

Pension Rights and Property Restitution

The Assembly will deliberate on a draft law amending Article 1 of Law No. 20 of 2012, which currently allows for the dismissal of workers and the denial of pension rights following a final judicial conviction for terrorism. The proposed amendment seeks to separate criminal penalties from social security benefits, ensuring that a criminal judgment does not result in the forfeiture of rights accrued through years of service and contributions. While the penalty of dismissal would remain in cases of final conviction, the provision denying pension rights is to be removed.

Additionally, a second draft law aims to exempt individuals whose funds were confiscated under rulings by terrorism and military courts between March 2011 and December 2024 from taxes and fees associated with the restoration process. According to the proposal, this exemption covers all costs linked to transferring ownership back to the original owners. This measure is intended to facilitate transitional justice by removing financial burdens that might otherwise arise from the procedures for re-registering and transferring ownership of restored assets.

Repealing the Terrorism Court Law

The third item on the agenda involves the repeal of Law No. 22 of 2012, which established a specialized court with jurisdiction over terrorism cases. The draft law proposes abolishing this specific judicial body, signaling a shift in how such cases are handled within the broader legal system. This move aligns with the overarching goal of bringing the legal framework in line with the principles of the constitutional declaration and protecting individual rights.

As the Assembly prepares to vote on these matters, observers will watch how the legislative body balances the need for transitional justice with the maintenance of legal order. The outcome of these sessions will provide insight into Syria’s approach to dismantling remnants of the previous regime’s legal apparatus while establishing new norms for governance and rights protection.