Although we have been active in Syria for over 20 years, travel to regime-controlled areas had been impossible since 2011 due to the nature of our work. This amongst others involved documenting and speaking out against human rights violations and crimes committed by the regime and its allies, as well as other armed groups. Visiting Syria’s capital at this crucial historical time as a delicate political transition is underway was essential to better understand fears, concerns and hopes of PAX partners and Syrian activists.
Reconnecting with Syrian activists
Syrian activists we met, including both former and current partners, expressed a wide range of emotions. While there was joy and relief at the end of the Assad dictatorship, many also voiced various concerns and fears. First, they were apprehensive about the new administration which has yet to take concrete steps towards inclusive representation during this transitional phase. There is still no clear plan to address justice and accountability or to determine the fate of missing persons. Second, they worried about rising tensions among community groups, many of whom have lived vastly different experiences over the last decade of conflict. Some feared the possibility of reprisal. Amidst a worsening economic crisis, several activists also warned of potential unrest and further crimes and human rights violations if pressing grievances remain unaddressed.
A buzzling civil society
Activists have quickly adapted to the newfound freedom in the street of Damascus. They have seized the opportunity to raise awareness about human rights and democratic principles within their communities, promoting dialogue and understanding – activities that were impossible under Assad’s rule. No longer afraid to discuss politics in public, cafes are now bustling with energy and often host events that bring together activists and intellectuals. Public dialogue sessions are being held in cafes packed with young women and men debating the need for civil society to organize itself and occupy the civic space. A visit to a youth community centre in the Palestinian camp of Sayyida Zaynab was deeply moving as each young person shared their personal story of pain and loss, while expressing their determination to continue their education.
Witnessing the devastation in Damascus’ suburbs
Through the Siege Watch project, between 2016 and 2018, we documented the way different parties (and in particular the Assad Regime and allies) used sieges to punish neighbourhoods, towns, and cities where they had lost control. While sieges initially aimed to contain rebellion and drain it of resources, brutal force including indiscriminate bombardments, attacks on civilian targets and incendiary and chemical weapons were then used to forcedly displaced communities who refused to surrender. Al-Ghouta, the suburban belt of Damascus, has sadly become famous for the long term-imposed sieges on many of its neighbourhoods.
Accompanied by former residents of Yarmouk camp, we witnessed the sights of devastation in the Palestinian camp and districts of Hajar Al Aswad, Jobbar and Douma. The deafening silence when walking amidst the rubbles is a stark reminder that numerous former residents are unable to return due to the heavy destruction and the lack of economic resources to rebuild their homes.
The time is critical to support Syrians to build the just and free Syria they have been dreaming of. The current lack of mechanisms to swiftly and efficiently support civil society puts at risk the drive for positive change in Syria. The support of the international community to Syrian civil society must come now to ensure that justice and accountability will be addressed, trust among the diverse communities will be rebuilt and that Syrians are able to return to their homes.
Benoite Martin, Syria Country Lead
