Leila Molana-Allen, Monocle's Middle East correspondent, shares her insights from a recent trip to Syria, discussing the challenges that lie ahead after Assad's rule. The conversation delves into humanitarian crises exacerbated by international tensions and the evolving role of women in society. Meanwhile, Chris Cermak analyzes Germany's immigration vote and its impact on far-right sentiments. Fashion highlights emerge from Copenhagen Fashion Week, blending style evolution with sustainability themes.
Syria's interim president, Ahmed al-Shara, faces skepticism over his commitment to unity and reform despite promises to dissolve non-state militias.
Germany's immigration debate intensifies as CDU collaborates with the far-right AFD, revealing fractures in political consensus and its impact on Syrian refugee integration.
Deep dives
Syria's New Leadership and Public Sentiment
Syria's new interim president, Ahmed al-Shara, has made a televised address that promises peace and national unity following the recent overthrow of Bashar al-Assad. Despite his assurances to dissolve non-state militias and to pursue reform, skepticism remains due to al-Shara's past as the head of Jabhat al-Nusra, a group previously linked to terrorism. Observations from field journalists indicate that while al-Shara attempts to present a more liberal front, there are concerns regarding potential authoritarianism and the difficulties in unifying a diverse set of factions under a national government. The ongoing challenges include rebuilding critical infrastructure and stabilizing a war-torn nation, while also addressing the needs of returning refugees, who are facing their hardships amid a fragile political climate.
Shifts in German Political Landscape
The political dynamics in Germany have shifted dramatically as the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) unexpectedly collaborated with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AFD) on immigration legislation, leading to significant backlash and debate within the Bundestag. Angela Merkel and other former CDU leaders have condemned this alliance, sparking heated discussions that highlight a fracturing consensus in German politics. Despite intensive discussions, a separate immigration bill failed to pass due to dissent within the CDU and participation from smaller parties. The incident reflects a growing tension in Germany regarding immigration and its implications, particularly in light of the community of Syrian refugees and their integration into society since 2015.
The Impact of Rebuilding Home on Syrian Refugees
The prospect of returning to Syria for many refugees hinges on the country's ability to stabilize and rebuild following years of civil conflict. Observations indicate that sentiments run high among Syrians, with many expressing a strong desire to return to a country that they once considered home, despite the war's devastation. Some strategies employed by Turkey, including allowing Syrian refugees to visit their homeland temporarily, may encourage more to contemplate returning, as they get a glimpse into potential rebuilding efforts. The integration of Syrian expatriates into European societies also highlights the complicated emotional and logistical aspects of return migration, as many grapple with their past and the desire to contribute positively to their homeland.
Microwaving Coffee: Science and Culture
Recent findings from a Massachusetts Institute of Technology study have definitively shown that microwaving coffee does not enhance its flavor, countering common belief and practice among some coffee drinkers. The study's humor stems from its personal motivation: to prove a point to the researcher’s father, who regularly microwaves his coffee. Both researchers and casual drinkers alike participate in an ongoing debate about coffee preparation, revealing cultural preferences tied to methods like using instant coffee versus traditional steeping methods. The discussion surrounding coffee brews is emblematic of broader cultural practices, illustrating how deeply embedded habits can evolve amid new evidence and scientific inquiry.
Monocle’s Middle East correspondent, Leila Molana-Allen, tells Andrew Mueller about her trip to Syria and what’s next for the country post-Assad. Then: Chris Cermak looks at Germany’s immigration vote, Grace Charlton reports from Copenhagen Fashion Week and Fernando Augusto Pacheco lifts the curtain on Basel’s preparations to host the Eurovision Song Contest.
