FT News Briefing

The rising influence of Mrs Assad

Apr 10, 2023

In this discussion, Raya Jalabi, the FT's Middle East correspondent, reveals the dramatic rise of Asma al-Assad, showcasing her transformation from a British banker to a key figure in Syria's socio-political landscape. Jalabi explores how Asma leveraged her circumstances, navigating health struggles and a deepened bond with her husband to gain influence. The conversation uncovers her role in seizing assets from the merchant class and controlling foreign aid distribution, highlighting the intricate power dynamics within the Syrian regime.

09:31

Creator website

Episode guests

Raya Jalabi

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Episode notes

Intro

3min

Transformation of a First Lady Amidst Crisis

2min

Economic Control and Asset Seizures in Syria

2min

The Power Dynamics of Aid Distribution under Asma al-Assad

3min

China’s financial sector is reeling from a series of new corruption probes and the FT’s Middle East correspondent, Raya Jalabi, explains how Syrian first lady Asma al-Assad gained so much power and influence.

Mentioned in this podcast:

China’s financial sector rocked by expansion of anti-corruption drive

Syria’s state capture: the rising influence of Mrs Assad

The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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