Syria stands at a precarious crossroads, oscillating between hope and fragility. The cessation of a 14-year brutal conflict, a conflict that decimated lives and infrastructure, is a cause for celebration, a glimmer of hope for a future free from violence. However, this hope is tempered by the overwhelming devastation left in the war’s wake. Syria’s infrastructure lies in ruins, its economy shattered, and its people, many displaced and impoverished, face an arduous journey to rebuild their lives. The international community must respond with both patience and substantial aid, fostering a stable environment that allows Syria to recover and prevents a relapse into chaos. A recent visit to Syria revealed a palpable sense of relief and cautious optimism among its people, a yearning for peace and stability after years of turmoil. Yet, this optimism is intertwined with apprehension, a fear born from the immense challenges that lie ahead.
The scale of the humanitarian crisis in Syria is staggering. Even before the recent conflict, millions relied on humanitarian assistance. Now, with hundreds of thousands newly displaced by the war, the situation is dire. Winter’s harsh grip adds another layer of hardship to a population struggling to access basic necessities. Syria’s economy, heavily reliant on cash, is crippled, supply chains are disrupted, and essential services are severely limited. Poverty is rampant, engulfing nearly 90% of the population. Even professionals, like doctors, struggle to survive on meager salaries, forcing them to seek alternative employment just to meet basic needs. The humanitarian infrastructure, already stretched thin, is further burdened by restrictions imposed by the al-Assad regime, hindering access and assessment efforts.
The international community’s immediate priority must be to provide substantial aid. The most vulnerable, including the displaced, host communities, and returnees, require urgent access to food, water, sanitation, and other essential supplies. The easing or removal of long-standing sanctions is crucial to facilitate development and reconstruction efforts. While humanitarian aid is vital in the short term, long-term recovery hinges on redevelopment. Donor countries, particularly those hosting large Syrian communities, should channel development aid towards rebuilding neighborhoods in Syria, empowering Syrian communities to actively participate in the reconstruction process.
The caretaker government must foster a pluralistic society that respects the rule of law, including human rights, property rights, and the rights of all citizens. This is crucial to assuage the fears of those who fled, especially those who remain hesitant to return. Demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and the protection of fundamental rights will encourage repatriation and build trust among the population. Neighboring countries like Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, and Türkiye, which bore the brunt of hosting Syrian refugees during the conflict, can play a pivotal role in supporting Syria’s transition. However, these countries require sustained financial support from the international community to continue providing this critical assistance.
The Syrian diaspora represents a significant asset in the rebuilding process. Their skills, resources, and commitment to their homeland are invaluable. The caretaker government and the international community should actively engage with the diaspora, incorporating their expertise and perspectives in the transition and reconstruction efforts. While the right to return is paramount, a mass return of refugees at this juncture would be premature and potentially destabilizing. Syria’s fragile infrastructure and limited resources cannot accommodate a large-scale influx of returnees. Such a scenario could exacerbate existing challenges, potentially triggering further displacement and chaos.
Investing in rebuilding essential infrastructure, particularly in education, healthcare, and community development, is crucial for creating a conducive environment for sustainable return. Syrians living abroad need assurance that their return will be safe and viable, that their children will have access to education, and that their basic needs will be met. They need to know their homes are safe and their communities are free from the remnants of war, such as unexploded ordnance, which pose a significant threat in many areas. “Go-and-see visits” should be facilitated to allow Syrians abroad to assess the situation firsthand, but these visits must be conducted in a safe and secure manner. Syria’s path forward must be paved with careful, inclusive steps, supported by sustained international assistance. The international community has a vested interest in Syria’s success, as a stable Syria contributes to a more peaceful and prosperous Middle East. Achieving this requires collaborative effort, meticulous planning, and a long-term commitment. As Syrians begin the arduous task of rebuilding their lives, they deserve not only our support, but also our patience.
