Syria is set to form its first parliament since the fall of the Assad dynasty. Local committees will choose legislators in the coming days. One third of the parliament will be directly appointed by President Ahmad Al-Sharaa.

Damascus

Syria is set to hold its first parliamentary session since the end of one-party rule under the Baath party, following the fall of the Assad regime. New political parties, such as the al-Jumhuriyah party, have emerged, but the legal framework for organized political activity remains incomplete.

Observers note that Syrian society is divided between those prioritizing stability and those seeking deeper democratic reforms. While the upcoming elections are seen as a milestone for political engagement, many citizens, especially the youth, are focused on addressing immediate humanitarian needs. The country faces the dual challenge of rebuilding after years of conflict and establishing a democratic political system.

Syrian legislators to be chosen in coming days

For 61 years, Syria lived under one party rule. The Baath party was written into the constitution as the leader of state and society, controlling everyday life with an iron fist. Beyond a few talking groups, there was no real political opposition. But that all changed in December 2024, with the fall of the Assad regime. For the first time in generations, Syrians could imagine real political freedom, yet participation has been slower than many expected. One of the first groups trying to fill that gap was the al-Jumhuriyah party, which announced its formation soon after Assad's fall. In this moment, it is unacceptable to stand idly or let polarization grow. It is essential to restart organized collective political work that is based on building a national modern and democratic state that shares a unifying patriotic narrative and moves away from populism. We believe as a party that until now we do not have a launchpad for organized political work like a proper party law. Observers of Syrian politics say two main streams are emerging. The legislative body that is being indirectly elected is under two main points of pressure. One part of society prioritizes security, stability and development, but another part believes the sacrifices of 14 years of revolution must lead to democracy, political engagement and legal framework for political work like a party law. Syria's first post-Assad parliament is due to convene in early October, but a law governing the formation of parties has not been written yet. The Syrian parliament, which once represented diversity and a source of national pride in the Syrian independence story, became in the Assad era synonymous with sham elections and disperse of loyalty to the president. The upcoming elections represent a key milestone in discovering public engagement and give key insight to the future of political life in the country. But not everyone is convinced politics should come first. For many young Syrians, there are more pressing matters. When you have people being killed, displaced or left without shelter or food, I don't see the point in sitting at round tables and just talking. I believe in taking action and helping people. Politics may come in the future, but for now, I'd rather spend my energy helping those who have nothing. The challenge is enormous, rebuilding a war-torn country while creating a strong democracy. What is clear is that the future of Syria is being written right now.

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