Divining Syria's Future

Abstract: When rebel forces seized Damascus on 8 December 2024, toppling the regime of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, Syrians were presented with another chance at democracy after decades. If the current moment provides Syrians the opportunity to revive the efforts of their forefathers, the risk of disappointment remains considerable. Syria's poverty and its hostile neighborhood further complicate democratic consolidation. The ascension to the presidency of Ahmad al-Sharaa, commander of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (Organization for the Liberation of Syria, or HTS), raises concerns due to his past authoritarian practices and uncertain democratic commitments. Despite these challenges, it is impossible not to have at least a sliver of faith in Syrians' capacity to finally achieve democracy.