Reimagining Governance: Promoting Participation in Syria for an Inclusive and Democratic future

In Syria, the collapse of the Assad regime marks a critical turning point, opening the door to rethinking Syria's future — a future that could be based on justice, human rights, accountability and participation of all. As one of the most diverse countries in the region, respect for minorities and diversity is critical not only for Syria but for the region as a whole. To date, there is little research on what Syrians want, think and imagine for their country after years of authoritarianism.

The overarching objective of this project is to strengthen civic spaces to define the democratic future of Syria through support to research on transition scenarios, platforms for inclusive participation and policy dialogue. Within the context of protracted fragility and conflict, facilitating Syrian civil society to work together to plan for their future is a way to contribute to positive change at a critical time for the region. Facilitating dialogue and cooperation can provide a necessary balance to the often overly technical focus in most transition processes. Dialogue and cooperation can help to address the entrenched systems of authoritarian rule and fragmentation between different groups that are currently at play.

The project will cover four topics: political transition, social cohesion, environmental sustainability and economic alternatives. This research will be used to shape policy recommendations to assist in laying a foundation for a more democratic and just future for the people of Syria.