Al-Sharaa’s shakeup: A merit-based state, or a circle of trust?
Following President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s reshuffle of governors and ministers, questions have emerged over whether the appointments reflect growing public discontent or signal a preference for trust and security control over participation and competence.
As Atef Najib’s trial proceeds, what legal basis exists for transitional justice?
As the trial of former Assad regime security official Atef Najib moves forward, some lawyers and human rights experts warn that it may be premature in the absence of a legal framework for transitional justice.
Syria bids farewell to its “Kingdom of Silence” — but warnings remain over a “trap” in comparing press freedom with the Assad era
Under the rule of the Assad regime — both father and son — Syria became known as the “Kingdom of Silence.” Since the outbreak of the Syrian revolution in March 2011, hundreds of male and female journalists have lost their lives while covering the events that have unfolded across the country.
Suwayda’s students caught up in the struggle with Damascus
Despite progress in talks between Suwayda education officials and Damascus to secure recognition of upcoming baccalaureate exams, students are wary of a repeat of last year, when thousands were left with unrecognized certificates amid an ongoing rift with the government.
Syrian Jews and allies seek a place in the country’s future, divided over Israel
As Syrian Jews and their allies in the diaspora work to reestablish ties and revive Syria’s ancient Jewish heritage, politics bubble beneath the surface. One thorny question—whether and how Israel fits into the picture—has opened a divide.
Reconstruction plan for eastern Damascus neighborhoods alarms residents
A proposal to rebuild destroyed neighborhoods in eastern Damascus through private investment and partial compensation for property owners has angered and alarmed residents who consider it “theft” and disguised expropriation.
Denied for decades, Syria’s stateless Kurds edge towards recognition
As stateless Syrian Kurds begin applying for citizenship under a recent presidential decree, hopes of restoring long-denied rights are tempered by bureaucratic hurdles and past disappointments.
Red lines and death threats: Freedom of expression wanes in Suwayda
Under pressure and death threats, a number of journalists and activists have fled Suwayda in recent months as the space for free expression narrows in the Druze-majority southern province.
Why did Germany keep a report used to justify deportations to Syria a secret?
Germany kept a report used to justify post-Assad deportations to Syria confidential for nearly a year before quietly releasing it last week. It appears to contain inaccuracies.
In southern Syria, echoes of the US-Israeli war with Iran hit close to home
While not a direct target of the escalating conflict between Israel, the US, Iran and Hezbollah, southern Syria is feeling its fallout—from drone debris to increased patrols by occupying forces.