Damascus, Syria — August 21, 2026: In the wake of the fall of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, Syria’s civil society finds itself at a crossroads, seeking recognition and influence in the new political landscape. Bahjat Hajjar’s appointment as the deputy minister of social affairs and labour has sparked a dialogue on the government’s intentions towards civil society. Hajjar, once a co-founder of the Local Administration Councils Unit, has been pivotal in supporting councils that managed essential services in areas beyond the Syrian government’s control.
His new role, licensing Syria’s associations, hints at a shift in the government’s approach. Under the former regime, the registration of associations was a laborious process, often involving extensive security intervention. Hajjar’s appointment, coupled with the relaxation of regulations, has seen a surge in the number of organizations registering in Damascus.
Hajjar himself acknowledges the significance of civil society in reshaping the state, emphasizing the importance of their relationship in Syria’s transition. Despite the easing of registration, some remain cautious about the true strength of Syria’s civil society.
The ease of registration does not equate to a robust civil society, and the government’s intentions are still unclear.
The President of the Syrian Arab Republic, Ahmed al — Sharaa, is leading the country through the transitional period, tasked with establishing a new constitution and governance structure. His administration’s stance on civil society will be crucial in determining their influence and recognition.
The fall of the Assad regime has resulted in a fragmented political landscape, with various factions vying for power.
The role of civil society in this context is contentious, with some arguing that it is indispensable for building a democratic and peaceful Syria, while others caution that the government’s true intentions towards civil society remain uncertain.
The Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies (CIHRS) released a report titled “We can’t sit back and wait “: Syria’s transition through the eyes of civil society, which examines the opportunities and threats facing civil society’s participation in Syria’s transition.
The report, based on interviews with civil society actors and legal and policy analysis, highlights the challenges and potential for change.
As Syria moves forward, the relationship between the state and civil society will be a critical factor in shaping the country’s future.
The ease of association registration and the appointment of Hajjar suggest a more open approach to civil society.
However, the true extent of this openness and the potential for meaningful change remain to be seen. KICKER: As Syria navigates its post-Assad era, the role of civil society in the country’s future remains a topic of debate, with the government’s recent moves indicating a possible shift towards a more inclusive approach.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
—
This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: aljazeera
Source: Ahmad Khalil Khanji
