ie.talks panel discussion in cooperation with Austrian Institute for International Affairs (oiip), Syrian Center for Policy Research (SCPR)
When: Wednesday, January 29th, 2025, 5.00—6.30 pm
Where: oiip - Österreichisches Institut für Internationale Politik,
Währinger Str. 3/12, 1090 Wien
Moderator: Cengiz Günay (oiip)
Discussants: Rabie Nasser (SCPR & Department of Development Studies) & Diana Bashur (Department of Political Science)
The panel traces Syria's trajectory through 14 years of conflict, beginning with the social movement in 2011, which evolved into a brutal military conflict involving regional and international powers, and culminating in the fall of Assad in 2024. The dynamics of the conflict have been shaped by devastating violence, external interventions, and the fragmentation of the country and society into zones controlled by state and non-state actors. This period saw the rise of identity politics, fundamentalism, and conflict economies that perpetuated division and instability. The prolonged conflict has deeply impacted Syria's development, with widespread socio-economic devastation, institutional collapse, and a fragmented national identity. Looking forward, the discussion will explore current political and development challenges, including rebuilding, inclusive governance, addressing socio-economic disparities, and navigating the legacies of conflict. Potential options for fostering stability and sustainable development will also be analyzed, focusing on mechanisms to overcome fragmentation and lay the foundation for a cohesive Syria.
Registration through:
www.oiip.ac.at/events/the-future-of-syria-political-and-economic-challenges-after-the-fall-of-the-assad-regime/