Damascus struggles with its divided past and uncertain future
- Sarah Birke returned to Damascus three months after its liberation from the Assad regime.
- The city is witnessing significant changes and complexities brought about by over a decade of war.
- Residents feel divided about their uncertain future, creating a climate of both hope and concern.
In March 2025, Sarah Birke, a correspondent for The Economist, visited Damascus, Syria, where she returned three months after the city was liberated from Bashar al-Assad's regime. The city had been under the Assad family's rule for over 53 years until Syrian rebels successfully captured the capital in December 2024, marking a pivotal moment in the Syrian Civil War. Birke's visit aimed to assess the changes in the city that had endured over a decade of conflict and war. The vast transformation was palpable as the city’s architecture, social fabric, and political landscape had all been affected by the turbulent times. During her time in Damascus, Birke observed a city grappling with the remnants of its past while facing an uncertain future. Residents were reportedly divided in their sentiments, with some expressing hope for a new political climate while others felt nostalgia for the stability that the Assad regime provided, despite its authoritarian nature. Citizens appeared apprehensive about the potential for violence and unrest in the wake of the regime's fall, as memories of past conflicts remained vivid. As Birke delved deeper into the city’s psyche, she found various grassroots initiatives emerging that aimed to unite different factions and promote a peaceful cohabitation among various groups. Activists were beginning to reclaim their voices in society, although many remained cautious about opposing forces that could undermine their efforts. The juxtaposition of trauma and resilience defined the streets of Damascus, revealing the complex interplay between hope and despair in a city healing from the wounds of its protracted war. Looking ahead, Birke analyzed the implications of this transitional period in Syria, where the political vacuum left by Assad's departure raised questions about governance, representation, and security. The potential for renewed conflict lingered as various factions vied for influence, and any misstep could trigger further instability. As Birke concluded her observations, it was evident that while the liberation of Damascus heralded a new era, the path forward was fraught with challenges requiring careful navigation by both local leaders and international observers.