Rebuilding Syria requires more than bricks and mortar. Opinion
Rebuilding Syria after more than a decade of devastating conflict is no easy task. The country’s destruction extends to its physical infrastructure, governance systems, and the social fabric that once held its people together. Although the dream of a prosperous, strong and unified new Syria can certainly be realized after the fall of the al-Assad regime, certain conditions must be met before the country can be raised from its ashes.
First, a transitional government should be formed to ensure a smooth transition to democracy, whose authority is accepted by all stakeholders. Any reconstruction effort can only succeed if it is guided by an inclusive and stable government that enjoys international recognition and the trust of the Syrian people. A new Syria cannot be built without a new social contract that supports human rights, democracy and the rule of law. Crafting this agreement will require the collective wisdom of Syria’s brightest minds and intellectual leaders, as well as the genuine support of the global community. Only a transformation driven by the Syrian people, but fully supported by international institutions through the exchange of expertise and the provision of technical assistance, can ensure successful reconstruction.
This endeavor will be challenging, and the path to realizing it will likely be fraught with obstacles because the current political landscape is fragmented, with no clear path to stable and fully representative government. However, without this, reconstruction efforts risk becoming yet another tool to deepen divisions rather than heal them.
Second, the stability of the Syrian state and the security of its people must be guaranteed. A country that is under attack and full of conflict cannot be effectively rebuilt. Israeli airstrikes on Syrian territory and the capture of more land have increased instability since the fall of the al-Assad regime. Such actions not only devastate infrastructure, but also demoralize communities and jeopardize hopes for rapid reconstruction and recovery.
As the global community keeps a close eye on Syria’s new leadership to ensure a smooth transition, it must also send a clear and strong message to Israel. This message should strongly condemn Israel’s actions and demand their immediate end. The international community needs to make it clear that such behavior is unacceptable and must stop immediately. Stability is not just about the absence of war; It is about creating an environment where people feel safe to rebuild their lives and invest in their future, the last thing the Syrian people need at this critical stage is a crisis with all the uncertainties and instabilities. There is a new battle front that will create for the new transitional government.
Third, international sanctions should be removed to put the country back on its feet. In particular, the Caesar Act, which has crippled Syria’s economy and made it nearly impossible to bring in foreign investment, must be repealed. These sanctions, which were intended to pressure the previous regime to implement human rights reforms and reduce repression, have also had a significant impact on the lives of everyday Syrians, increasing their suffering and despair.
The global community may be hesitant to lift sanctions completely due to uncertainty about Syria’s new leadership. Nevertheless, a more nuanced approach can be taken. Instead of blanket sanctions, a targeted strategy could be implemented that includes easing sanctions on Syria’s dynamic business community and private sector. This will contribute to the long-term stability of Syria and accelerate reconstruction. In the meantime, if necessary, targeted sanctions against specific government officials can be used as a tool to encourage positive change. This approach balances the need for caution with the imperative of economic revival and reconstruction.
Fourth, civil society should be empowered to play an active role in the reconstruction process. Independent local organizations should be closely involved in all reconstruction efforts, ensuring transparency and accountability. Under the rule of the al-Assad family, Syria has never had an independent civil society. Years of tight control have decimated community-led initiatives, leaving the society inadequate for meaningful public participation. However, during periods of transition and extensive reconstruction, grassroots organizations that advocate for fairness and ensure that aid reaches those in need have an important role to play. Without them, the reconstruction process risks being tainted by corruption and favoritism. Syria’s new rulers must prioritize supporting and strengthening Syrian civil society to ensure a healthy and successful reconstruction.
Rebuilding Syria is not just about politics – it is also a complex technical puzzle. The country is in dire need of people with technical knowledge and experience to be able to make long-term plans for reconstruction, budget effectively and deal with the obstacles that inevitably emerge in various complex reconstruction projects. But here’s the tricky part: Should Syria’s new leaders use information from old regime officials? These officials and civil servants have valuable inside information, but their ties to a government accused of terrible acts can cause large sections of the population to lose confidence in the entire process. Finding the right balance is important. The reconstruction effort must include all Syrians, and especially those most affected by the war – women, children and minority groups. It would not only be wrong to alienate any group by giving too much power to those with close ties to the old regime, but would also be certain to reignite tensions and destroy any reconstruction effort before it can really begin. There will be a way.
Reconstruction of Syria will also be expensive. Who will pay for all this? Syria’s new leadership cannot do this alone, using whatever is left in the state’s coffers. A coalition of international donors, including United Nations organizations, will need to provide extensive funding to the country. But they will open their pockets only when there is a government on which people trust. Donors need to know that their money will not be wasted or stolen. It is also important to ensure that aid coming to Syria is not dispersed or politically motivated. Donors linking aid to their political demands and priorities will only lead to wasted efforts, gaps in aid, and greater mistrust. What is needed is a united approach that prioritizes the real needs of the Syrian people and does not allow aid efforts to be influenced by political gamesmanship. Syria could benefit from hosting a comprehensive reconstruction conference, bringing together international donors and the new Syrian government to align reconstruction priorities, ensure transparent cooperation, and begin rebuilding the country’s infrastructure and social fabric. Is.
Last but not least, education will be critical in rebuilding Syria into a vibrant, inclusive, prosperous country. A strong education system promotes a society that values human rights, community participation and fairness. Only by investing in education and community engagement can Syria heal its social fabric and nurture a generation that chooses dialogue and cooperation over conflict.
The most important aspect of rebuilding Syria will be the reconstruction of Syrian society. After all, behind all the technical stuff are real people – families who have lost loved ones to arbitrary detention, children who have been left without education, entire communities suffering from trauma. Reconstruction does not just mean fixing roads, houses, schools and hospitals; It is about giving people back their dignity and hope. Syrians need to realize that their suffering is not in vain, that they have a stake in their country’s future, and that the days ahead are about much more than loss and conflict.
Rebuilding Syria will take time and require commitment from all stakeholders. It’s not just about building – it’s about rebuilding trust, including everyone in the process, and making sure people are held accountable. The journey ahead is long, but with the right groundwork, there is hope that Syria can once again become a thriving, resilient country. This is a challenge that matters to the Syrian people and to all of us.
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial stance of Al Jazeera.
