Syrians Experience Newfound Freedom After Assad's Fall
With the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime on December 8, 2024, many Syrians are rejoicing, celebrating their long-awaited liberation from decades of oppression. This monumental event has transformed the lives of countless individuals who endured years of systematic repression, enabling them to express their thoughts freely without fear.
Attending celebrations across the globe, community members have shared their relief and optimism about the future of their country. Summer Albarcha, a Syrian American who joined over 250 community members celebrating Assad's ousting, proclaimed, "We just feel such a renewed sense of hope for our community." This newfound spirit is widely felt among those whose lives were marred by the historical brutality of the Assad regime.
For many, like Youssef Ahmed Sabbagh, this event stirs emotional memories of their past hardships. Sabbagh stated, "I used to hear and see missiles, bullets and explosives," recalling the sound of gunfire during his childhood years under the Assad administration. Now, the fall of one of the Middle East’s most notorious dictators creates hope among over 14 million Syrian refugees who might soon see the promise of returning to their homeland.
The departure of Assad has not only draped the nation with optimism but signaled the potential end of its decade-long civil war. Dr. Amy Austin Holmes, associate professor of international affairs at Texas A&M University, commented on this historic moment likening it to 1989's fall of communism. She noted, "The end of the Assad regime has been likened to 1989 ... the loss of Russian influence in Syria is similar to the fall of communism."
Compounding the excitement, participants at various gatherings spoke of the liberation of detainment camps and prisons, highlighting changes occurring throughout Syria. Debbie Shriver, involved with the Valley Syrian Relief Committee, became emotional upon hearing of the Rukban camp’s liberation, stating, "This was... emblematic of what has happened for the Syrian people as a whole." This theme of liberation resonates strongly throughout Syrian communities as they begin to engage with the possibilities of rebuilding.
Despite the challenges faced and the heavy legacy of repression left behind, many now see the importance of addressing the realities of governance. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), one of the rebel groups involved in overthrowing Assad, is now asserting itself as the new governing body. HTS, designated as terrorist by several countries, has undergone significant changes under the leadership of Ahmad al-Sharaa, who claims to have renounced extremist ideologies. Dr. Holmes explained the complexity of the situation, noting, "While HTS marched on Damascus, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) expelled the Syrian regime from Qamishlo and Hasakah."
Confusion reigns about the future direction of Syria. Omar Dahi, director of Security in Context, presented these conflicting emotions, stating, "It’s... joy, disbelief, and fear about what might happen next." Such sentiments underline the precariousness of seeking stability birthed from revolt.
The transitional phase is compounded by various external influences, including U.S. involvement. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has pointed out principles the United States expects from any new Syrian government: respecting minority rights and facilitating humanitarian assistance. Given the U.S.'s complex history with Syria, the potential recognition of the new government remains uncertain.
For many, the dilemma continues as to whether Bashar al-Assad will face justice for his regime's crimes, such as arbitrary arrests and torture. Growing momentum for accountability is felt, as high-ranking officials from his administration have already been indicted for war crimes. Dr. Holmes highlighted the hope for more prosecutions, noting, "So yes, I am hopeful Assad will also face justice.”
With power shifting and futures uncertain, the social fabric of Syria is left to be repaired as communities rise to the occasion. Noor, reflecting on the cultural transformations post-Assad, stated, "We are now looking for the words we did not dare to say"—a sentiment echoed by many who feel they can finally speak out against oppression.
Despite the clear path forward being nebulous, the very act of falling—both politically and ideologically—opens up spaces for dialogue previously stifled. Salma, who observed the impact of the regime on journalists and activists, mentioned the importance of creating platforms for new voices, acknowledging, "a community... needs time to absorb what is happening."
The new chapter for Syria remains unwritten and will require active participation from its citizens to codify their aspirations for peace, freedom, and inclusion. Gary Reiter, professor of politics, stressed the responsibility of all parties, including the U.S. and Turkey, to cooperate to prevent civil strife and create pathways for inclusive governance. He remarked, "Governing Syria is... different from governing Idlib."
Only time will reveal if the lessons learned from years of suffering will inspire leaders and citizens alike to build not just a different Syria but one reflective of the hopes and dreams of all its people. The oppressive past still looms large, but with the fall of the Assad regime, the promise of healing and renewal fills the air.
