Damascus became the center of attention last week when Syrian transition leader Ahmed al-Sharaa made headlines for his refusal to shake hands with Germany's foreign minister, Annelena Baerbock, during her diplomatic visit to the region. This seemingly trivial incident has sparked larger discussions surrounding gender norms, diplomatic protocol, and the future of Syria's engagement with the West.
The diplomatic visit, which also included French foreign minister Jean-Noël Barrot, was meant to address key issues surrounding Syria's tumultuous transition from years of civil unrest. While al-Sharaa extended his hand to Barrot, he declined to offer the same gesture to Baerbock, igniting debates about traditional Islamic practices versus modern diplomatic expectations.
According to Baerbock, her expectations were tempered. "When I came here, it was clear to me there would obviously not be any ordinary handshakes," she stated, reinforcing the idea of cultural sensitivities. Barrot echoed her thoughts, saying, "Would I have preferred Sharaa shake my German colleague’s hand? The answer is yes. Was it the purpose of this visit? The answer is no." His pragmatic approach highlights the need for effective diplomacy over rigid adherence to traditional expectations.
The incident has been compared to past diplomatic tensions, particularly the awkward moment between former U.S. President Donald Trump and then-German Chancellor Angela Merkel, where the lack of handshake portended future strains. Jamie Dettmer, the opinion editor at POLITICO Europe, pointed out, "There’s a lot in a handshake — and a lot in its absence too," emphasizing how such gestures can shape perceptions and relationships.
For many observers, Sharaa's refusal to engage with Baerbock raises questions about the potential imposition of conservative Islamic norms within the newly transitioning government. This has incited fears of gender discrimination reminiscent of the oppressive regimes seen elsewhere. Political commentators are cautious, drawing parallels with Afghanistan’s transition wherein women’s rights were drastically suppressed following their authoritarian regime’s establishment.
Despite the palpable apprehension surrounding women's rights and civil liberties, there are signs of progressive changes. Women have been appointed to notable positions, including the governor of the Central Bank of Syria. This indicates there might be room for cautious optimism. Syria’s civil society remains active, advocating for issues such as women’s rights and religious pluralism, which should not be overlooked amid discussions of handshakes and diplomatic gestures.
For European nations, particularly those who fear the resurgence of ISIS, the stability of Syria remains a pressing concern. The specter of ISIS still looms large, and with it, the threat of terrorism spilling beyond Syria's borders — something most recently evidenced by incidents from Paris. With this backdrop, Europe may have more than just diplomatic niceties at stake; the future security of the continent might very well depend on Syria's success.
Western nations are encouraged to support the transition leadership, even if they grapple with misconceptions or deviations from their ideals. Analysts argue the need for European countries to lift the sanctions imposed on Syria during Bashar al-Assad's rule, which they now see as counterproductive to aiding the nation’s recovery and ensuring long-term stability.
It stands to reason, then, for the West to embrace encouragement over criticism, as long as the transition maintains its course toward improvement. The handshake incident serves as more than just protocol; it encapsulates the challenges, expectations, and political intricacies of engaging with leaders whose practices may diverge significantly from Western standards.
While the absence of a handshake may at first glance seem trivial, it serves as a powerful reminder of the cultural chasms present as the international community gears up to forge relations with Syria's new leadership. Whether this transition can overcome its inherent challenges remains to be seen, but for Europe, the stakes are incredibly high.