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The Briefing

Celebration and fear: Syria's new leadership explained

Dec 9, 2024
In this discussion, Professor Greg Barton, Chair in Global Islamic Politics at Deakin University, sheds light on Syria's recent political upheaval after the fall of Bashar al-Assad. He explores the mix of celebration and fear among citizens, highlighting the role of rebel groups like Hayat Tahir al-Sham in shaping future governance. Barton also addresses the complex landscape of oppression under the Assad regime, the influence of key allies like Russia and Iran, and the significant challenges and opportunities ahead for rebuilding Syria.
18:27

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime has sparked celebration among Syrians, symbolizing a pivotal shift towards potential reform after decades of oppression.
  • The future governance in Syria faces uncertainty, with the HTS promising a moderate approach amidst skepticism and the challenge of integrating diverse communities.

Deep dives

Significance of Assad's Regime Collapse

The recent fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria marks a pivotal moment after over 54 years of autocratic rule. The regime's sudden collapse is seen as a cause for celebration among many Syrians and international observers, offering a historic opportunity for reform and governance. Led by the Hayat Tahir al-Sham (HTS) group, which claims to have reformed and practiced good governance in its controlled areas, the hope is that a new administration can emerge that reflects the pluralistic nature of Syria. While the situation is still rife with uncertainty, the transition away from a brutal dictatorship presents both possibilities and risks for the future of the nation and its citizens.

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