Inside StorySyria: One year after al-Assad

Political Transition in Syria: An Overview

Following nearly 14 years of civil conflict, Syria is entering a phase of political transition. The cessation of hostilities in Damascus has marked a significant shift in the nation's governance structure. As of one year ago, the armed group led by Ahmed al-Sharaa assumed control of Damascus with minimal resistance.

The departure of Bashar al-Assad, who relocated to Moscow, concluded a regime that had been in power since 1970. The transition was initially met with public enthusiasm, as political prisoners were released and a dictatorship ended. However, the country now faces challenges inherent to such a transition, including sectarian tensions, economic hardship, and calls for accountability regarding past governmental actions.

Sectarian tensions remain a significant issue. Economic recovery is hindered by persistent poverty. There is a demand for justice related to historical governmental atrocities.

Experts are evaluating Syria's transition process. The discussion includes insights from:

Haid Haid, a researcher at Chatham House Ammar Kahf, executive director at Omran Center for Strategic Studies Heiko Wimmen, project director for Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon at the International Crisis Group

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.