On December 8, 2024, the atmosphere at the Lebanese border was charged with anticipation as many, including myself, awaited the reopening of the crossing into Syria. The sudden ousting of Bashar al-Assad, who had ruled for 24 years, had led to significant changes across the nation. Opposition forces had made substantial gains, capturing major cities like Aleppo and advancing towards Damascus. It was a surreal moment—Syria was experiencing a sense of freedom for the first time in decades.
For many Syrians, including myself, the Assad regime represented over fifty years of oppression, punctuated by disappearances and the devastating civil war that began in 2011, claiming the lives of countless individuals. Having been detained during the early stages of the uprising and witnessing the brutality of the regime firsthand, I had long since believed I would never return to my homeland. However, the regime’s collapse came swiftly, and as I crossed into Syria without fear of arrest, I was overwhelmed with emotions, watching as people celebrated in the streets.
Emergence of New Freedoms
In the weeks following Assad’s fall, Umayyad Square in Damascus transformed into a vibrant center of celebration. People of all ages engaged in lively discussions about politics, something that was unimaginable during Assad’s reign. The atmosphere was electric, with street vendors and taxi drivers sharing their perspectives on Syria’s future. The stark contrast to the past, where public dissent was stifled, was remarkable.
However, four months later, the complexities of the new landscape began to unfold. While there was evident progress in social freedoms, questions emerged regarding the nature of future governance and the role of Islam in this evolving regime. The critical inquiry became: how long can these newly acquired liberties be sustained?
A Return to Roots
At Rawda Café in central Damascus, once a venue where political discussions were fraught with danger, a renewed sense of community has emerged. Intellectuals gather to converse openly, a stark contrast to the fear that once permeated the air. Those who fled the country during Assad’s rule are now returning, welcomed with warmth and music.
“I think everyone who can come back, should come back to rebuild the country,” says Syrian journalist Mohammad Ghannam, who endured imprisonment under Assad’s regime.
Ghannam reflects on the newfound liberties that have taken root since the regime’s downfall. Individuals like Odai al-Zobi, who was forced into exile for his outspoken views, have also returned, marking a significant cultural shift as restrictions on literature and artistic expression are lifted.
Despite this progress, concerns linger regarding potential repression by religious authorities, reminiscent of past political controls. The cultural scene, historically a source of pride for Syrians, flourishes but may face challenges if hardline interpretations of Islam gain traction.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa, appointed following the fall of Assad, faces the daunting task of establishing lasting governance. His commitment to creating a framework for free and fair elections is met with skepticism, as the political arena remains largely uninviting to diverse voices.
Critics point out that while progress has been made, the lack of a comprehensive constitutional framework poses risks for the future. The interim government has made strides in inclusivity, with diverse appointments; however, the concentration of power among former regime affiliates raises concerns about genuine democratic practices.
Women’s rights, a crucial aspect of the social fabric, remain under scrutiny. Although women have historically held positions of influence, there are worries about the potential marginalization of women in the judiciary and broader society.
As violence flares in certain regions and divisions within the population grow, the question of Syria’s future remains unresolved. The new leadership is faced with the dual challenge of addressing public discontent while fostering an environment conducive to dialogue and reconciliation.
The sentiments expressed by observers highlight a pressing need for inclusive governance. The Syrian populace, having endured decades of authoritarianism, appears determined not to revert to oppressive rule. The road ahead, fraught with challenges, will ultimately depend on the commitment of the new authorities to embrace genuine democratic ideals.
As various factions vie for influence, the aspirations of the Syrian people for a peaceful and free society hang in the balance. The next steps taken by the interim government may determine whether Syria can secure a lasting commitment to democracy or face the specter of renewed authoritarianism.