Building Syria’s Self-Sufficiency A Home-Grown Approach

This study examines Syria’s potential for achieving self-sufficiency by assessing its human, physical, material, and natural resources following the protracted revolution and post-Assad regime transition. Using qualitative inquiry, document analysis, and exploratory research, the paper identifies key resources—including arable land, natural gas, and human capital that could drive economic independence. Through benchmarking with the Rwandan homegrown solutions for the self-sufficiency journey, the study recommends parallel macroeconomic reforms, particularly in foreign trade diversification beyond agricultural products and calcium phosphates. Strategic development of manufacturing, oil, gas, and mining sectors is essential. At the microeconomic level, households require stable incomes, insurance, electricity, housing, and job opportunities, supported by diaspora engagement. Drawing lessons from post-conflict Rwanda, the paper emphasises home-grown solutions, resource optimisation, and resilience-building to reduce aid dependency. The paper outlines the priorities envisaged through a road map reflected in Tables for the possible self-sufficiency in Syria until the recovery and development phases.