The Syrian Future Movement is following with deep concern the incident of corporal punishment against a female student at a school in Darayya, and the subsequent decision by the Ministry of Education to suspend the school principal. While we affirm our absolute rejection of any form of violence against children, we believe this incident reveals a profound flaw in the educational system, requiring radical treatment that goes beyond punitive measures.
First: Educational Principles
The Syrian Future Movement believes that corporal punishment, regardless of its motives, is a violation of the dignity and rights of children and contradicts the most basic principles of modern education. We emphasize that the educational environment must be a safe and stimulating space, with no place for violence or humiliation.
Second: Legal Dimension
Despite the Ministry of Education’s statements that Syrian law prohibits corporal punishment, we at the Syrian Future Movement believe that the legislative reality still lacks clear and explicit texts criminalizing corporal punishment in schools. Therefore, we demand that the Syrian Penal Code be amended to align with international agreements ratified by Syria, most notably the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Third: Regarding Administrative Justice
The Syrian Future Movement expresses its reservations about the decision to suspend the school principal from work before the investigation is completed, especially if this suspension would result in her being deprived of her salary in light of the difficult economic circumstances. Justice requires gradual procedures and a distinction between individual error and systematic behavior, and between punishment and rehabilitation.
Accordingly, the Syrian Future Movement calls for:
- Including mandatory training programs for teaching staff on positive parenting and non-violent discipline methods.
- Establishing an independent mechanism for receiving student and parent complaints, ensuring confidentiality and protection.
- Reviewing educational curricula to promote a culture of rights and mutual respect within schools.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that building modern Syria begins in school, that the dignity of the child is the cornerstone of any educational or societal renaissance, and that there will be no future without a just, safe, and humane educational environment.
