State of the World from NPR How Will the New Syria Be Governed?
Feb 20, 2025
Syria is on the brink of a major transformation following a long civil war. With decades of Assad family rule ending, questions about governance arise. The podcast explores the role of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and its influence over a city once run by rebels. Local interviews reveal the challenges of managing diverse factions and providing social services. This discussion paints a complex picture of a country's shift towards a new political landscape.
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Barricades of Idlib
- In Idlib, dirt barricades, remnants of checkpoints, mark the former boundaries of rebel-held territory.
- These checkpoints were crucial during the Syrian civil war, separating areas controlled by different factions.
Early HTS Rule
- Initially, Ahmed al-Shara's group, HTS, implemented strict Islamist rules in Idlib, similar to other militias.
- These rules included burning establishments selling cigarettes and alcohol and restricting women's freedoms.
Restrictions on Women
- Cafe owner Abdul Kahar Zakour recalls how women faced restrictions under early HTS rule in Idlib.
- They couldn't work alongside men or enter stores with male employees, highlighting the initial social impact of HTS.