Fathi M. A. Ahmed’s Team's translation experience, particularly in content related to the Syrian situation, exemplifies a mastery of both linguistic precision and cultural sensitivity. As a leading expert in Arabic-English-Arabic translation, Mr. Ahmed has played a pivotal role in addressing the complex and multifaceted aspects of the Syrian conflict. His work encompasses a deep understanding of the accountability ecosystem, core international crimes, and restorative justice, making him an indispensable contributor to the global discourse on justice and accountability in Syria.

Translating the Syrian Accountability Ecosystem

Our team has been at the forefront of translating documents that navigate the intricate accountability ecosystem in Syria. This ecosystem involves a diverse array of state and non-state actors, international organizations, and grassroots initiatives aimed at ensuring justice for victims of the Syrian conflict. The team’s translation work includes reports, resolutions, and case files produced by entities such as Mr. Ahmed's work for the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism for Syria (IIIM-Syria), the United Nations, and various international NGOs. Their expertise ensures that translations accurately reflect the complex legal and procedural terminology used in addressing Syria’s accountability framework.

Core International Crimes: Precision in Legal Terminology

The team has extensively covered the core international crimes committed during the Syrian conflict: genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression. These crimes involve complex legal concepts that demand both linguistic accuracy and a deep understanding of international law.

For example, translating documentation related to war crimes committed by state actors and non-state actors such as Daesh (ISIS), Jabhat al-Nusra, and other armed groups requires a careful balance of legal precision and cultural sensitivity. The team has worked on translating evidence and testimonies documenting atrocities such as targeted attacks on civilians, the use of chemical weapons, and sexual and gender-based violence. Their translations have been instrumental in supporting accountability mechanisms at the ICC and the IIIM-Syria.

Expertise in Restorative Justice and Transitional Mechanisms

Restorative justice is a critical component of addressing the aftermath of the Syrian conflict. The team has translated a range of documents exploring restorative justice mechanisms, including victim-centered approaches, reparations, and community reconciliation initiatives. These translations are vital for fostering understanding and dialogue among Syrian stakeholders and the international community.

One of their significant contributions includes translating reports on initiatives led by civil society organizations in Syria that focus on rebuilding trust and social cohesion in war-torn communities. These translations highlight the importance of restorative justice as a complementary approach to punitive measures, ensuring that victims’ voices are central to the justice process.

Post-Assad Syria: A Critical Opportunity for Justice, Accountability, and Transitional Justice 

The ousting of Bashar Al-Assad in December 2024 presents a pivotal opportunity for justice and accountability in Syria, particularly for addressing the core international crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes committed during the conflict. The post-Assad Syria can enable the establishment of transitional justice mechanisms, including trials, truth commissions, and reparations, to address the extensive human rights violations perpetrated under his regime. Such a transition would also provide a critical moment for integrating Syria into the global accountability ecosystem, fostering cooperation with international bodies like the International Criminal Court (ICC), the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism for Syria (IIIM-Syria) and regional organizations to ensure perpetrators are held accountable. 

Focused Team for Syrian Content

Recognizing the unique linguistic and cultural requirements of translating Syrian-related content, the team has assigned individuals, including team leaders, exclusively to handle Syrian materials. This focused approach ensures that translations are not only accurate but also culturally and contextually appropriate. Team members are well-versed in the specific terminologies and nuances associated with the Syrian situation, including references to key state and non-state actors such as the Syrian Arab Army, the Free Syrian Army, Daesh, and various Kurdish factions like the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The team’s specialization extends to understanding the broader geopolitical landscape of the Syrian conflict, enabling them to provide translations that reflect the complex interplay of local, regional, and international actors. This includes translating materials related to the roles of Russia, Iran, Turkey, and the United States in the conflict, as well as the activities of organizations like the United Nations and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

Language Adaptation for Syrian Audiences

One of the defining features of the team’s work is the meticulous adaptation of language to suit Syrian audiences. This involves using terminology and phrasing that align with Syrian Arabic, ensuring that translations are comprehensible and relatable to the target audience. For example, when translating materials for victims and witnesses, the team avoids overly formal or technical language that might alienate readers. Instead, they employ clear and empathetic language that respects the sensitivities of those affected by the conflict.

Similarly, when translating legal and technical documents, the team ensures that the Arabic terminology adheres to international legal standards while remaining accessible to Syrian legal practitioners and stakeholders. This balance of precision and accessibility is a hallmark of the team’s translation expertise.

Bridging the Gap: Supporting Justice and Accountability

Through their work, the team has significantly contributed to bridging the linguistic and cultural gaps that often hinder justice and accountability efforts in the Syrian context. Their translations enable international organizations, legal practitioners, and civil society actors to communicate effectively and collaborate on shared goals. By ensuring that Syrian voices are heard and understood on the global stage, the team’s work supports the broader accountability ecosystem and contributes to the pursuit of justice for Syria’s victims.