Syria’s interim president heralded a national dialogue conference as a pivotal opportunity for rebuilding after Bashar al-Assad’s fall. He stressed the need for a unified military and integration of armed groups. The conference seeks recommendations on key issues but has faced criticism for the exclusion of certain factions, notably the Kurdish-led SDF. The outcomes will be crucial for Syria’s political landscape and international relations.
Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, emphasized at a national dialogue conference the monumental chance for rebuilding the nation after the fall of Bashar al-Assad. He called for the integration of armed factions into the official military, asserting that the state’s exclusive control over arms is crucial for the nation’s unity. The conference, attended by 600 delegates, seeks recommendations on critical issues like transitional justice, the economy, and a new constitution to guide the planned transitional government.
However, concerns have arisen over the conference’s perceived hastiness, notably the exclusion of the Kurdish-led coalition and the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria from participation. Bashar al-Assad’s administration ruled Syria for over five decades, with his regime responding violently to the 2011 pro-democracy protests, leading to a devastating civil war. Many lives have been lost, and millions have been displaced since the onset of this conflict.
After an Islamist-led rebel coalition captured Damascus, Sharaa was named president to lead a transitional government. Plans include the dissolution of prior governing structures and drafting a new constitutional framework. Sharaa, advocating for national autonomy, emphasized, “Syria liberated itself on its own, and it suits it to build itself on its own,” during his address at the conference.
The organizing committee intends to create six working groups to address various themes, including justice, constitutional reforms, and economic strategies. The resulting recommendations will inform the upcoming transitional government’s policies. An interim justice system is also on the agenda to address civil war grievances and reinforce state authority by disarming non-state factions and claiming their territory.
While the interim government retains control over major urban centers, numerous armed groups, including the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), continue to exert influence over vast areas. The SDF’s refusal to join the new military has sparked further debate, with some criticism indicating that their absence complicates the conference’s legitimacy and effectiveness in representing all Syrian demographics.
Responses from the AANES reflect a sentiment of disappointment regarding their representation—asserting the conference’s inadequacy in addressing the needs of Kurdish communities and minorities. Civil society participants have stressed the importance of inclusive dialogue encompassing all Syrian factions to foster a sustainable and unified future for the country. Validation from the international community hinges on inclusivity and respect for diverse communities.
The international response, including sanctions relief from the EU to facilitate humanitarian efforts, remains contingent upon the new leadership’s adherence to democratic practices and minority rights. At the conference, Syrian officials criticized remaining sanctions as unjust pressure tactics against the Syrian populace, further complicating the nation’s recovery from its extensive civil strife.
The national dialogue conference in Syria represents a critical moment post-Assad for potential reconstruction and governance reforms. Principal challenges include ensuring the inclusive participation of all demographics, particularly the Kurdish population, and forming a unified military approach. The process of transitional justice and constitutional reform is vital for restoring public trust and stability. International support will depend on the new leadership’s commitment to democratic principles and the protection of minority rights moving forward.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
