Human Rights Watch and opposition activists have urged the Arab League to suspend Syria's membership in the wake of anti-government unrest estimated to have left more than 3,000 people dead. Here is a look at Syria's relations with the regional body.

-An Arab League suspension would not have a direct impact on Syria but would further isolate it from the international community.

-In October, the league considered a proposal from six Gulf nations to suspend Syria's membership. However, deep divisions among league members prevented passage of the measure.

-In November, Syria approved an Arab League plan designed to end the deadly violence which has accompanied the anti-government protests that erupted in March. The agreement called for Syria to withdraw its security forces from the streets, release political prisoners and begin a dialogue with the opposition. Opposition activists say security forces have continued to kill dissidents.

-The Arab League currently has 22 members. It was founded in 1945 with the goal of strengthening political and economic ties between member states. Syria is one of the group's six charter members.