A Syrian economist and a former advisor to President al-Assad discuss the dire economic situation in government-controlled Syria, including lack of electricity, high inflation rates, and unemployment. The podcast also covers the ongoing protests in Sueda, Syria, as citizens demand basic needs and express their determination for political change.
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Quick takeaways
The Syrian economy has been severely impacted by the civil war, leading to skyrocketing inflation rates and high unemployment.
Protesters in the city of Sowader demand dignified living conditions, access to basic services, and political change.
Deep dives
Economic Hardship in Syria
The Syrian economy has been severely impacted by nearly 12 years of civil war, with the situation deteriorating further in recent months. Inflation rates have skyrocketed, reaching a staggering 17,000%, and the unemployment rate is above 25%. The economic hardship has led to a dire situation where people struggle to afford basic necessities. The average monthly salary is insufficient to cover even a single meal, causing widespread frustration and despair among the population.
Protests in Sowader
The city of Sowader, located near Syria's southern border, has become a hotbed of protests. The people of Sowader are fed up with the dire economic conditions and the lack of basic services. They have been experiencing just four hours of electricity a day for the past ten months. The frustration is palpable, with protesters demanding a dignified life, adequate access to water and electricity, and good education for their children. They also seek political change, demanding the release of prisoners and holding war criminals accountable.
Challenges and Outlook
The Syrian regime, led by President Bashar al-Assad, faces significant challenges and vulnerabilities. The government is running on empty, with no funds in the central bank and limited access to hard currency. Despite growing protests, a complete collapse of the regime is unlikely, as it is not facing a direct military threat and lacks international support for a rebel uprising. Change, if it were to happen, would need to come from within the regime ranks. Nevertheless, the protesters in Sowader remain hopeful, believing that their demands for a better life and political change must be heard.
We hear from people protesting in the government-controlled city of Sweida.
Criticism of President Bashar al-Assad has been growing in Sweida since demonstrations began in mid-August over the removal of fuel subsidies. It's the latest measure that has put a strain on people suffering from an economic meltdown.
A resident and activist tells us what life is like for him living in the city, plus we hear from a Syrian economist, and a form adviser to President al_Assad now based in the US.
Presenter: Ed Butler
(Image: People protest in the Syria's southern city of Sweida on September 1, 2023. Credit: Getty Images)
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