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Syria’s Uncertain Future: A New Chapter After 14 Years of Conflict

With 14 years of brutal conflict behind it, Syria finds itself at a significant yet precarious juncture. The devastation is stark, with reports indicating that approximately 90 percent of the population now lives in poverty.

Despite such dire circumstances, estimates suggest that up to one million individuals currently residing in camps and displacement sites in the country’s northwest are planning to return to their homes in the coming year. This movement highlights a glimmer of hope as Syrians begin to navigate the complex and often painful process of rebuilding their lives and reconciling with their traumatic pasts.

Waad Al-Kateab, the acclaimed filmmaker known for her award-winning documentary, For Sama, captured the harsh realities of life under siege in Aleppo prior to her departure from Syria in 2016. Since her displacement, she has remained an ardent advocate for human rights in her homeland, co-founding Action For Sama, a campaign aimed at promoting dignity, accountability, and awareness for the Syrian people.

In a recent conversation with UN News, Al-Kateab expressed her determination to ensure that the quest for justice remains at the forefront as Syria navigates this new chapter.

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

Reflections on the Past Months

Waad Al-Kateab: The past few months have been a whirlwind of emotions. There’s overwhelming joy mixed with disbelief. For a long time, I thought my fate was sealed in exile, never anticipating I would witness this remarkable moment. It arrived unexpectedly, catching us all off guard.

Though we’re elated, we cannot overlook the extensive suffering and loss we endured over the past 14 years—and for many, the burden stretches back even further to the era of Hafez al-Assad. Processing this blend of hope and grief is challenging, leaving me to question its reality at times.

Connections with Family Back Home

Waad Al-Kateab: Until recently, I was unable to return due to my refugee status, but I am close to obtaining UK citizenship, which will grant me more freedom to travel. My parents revisited Syria in January, as did some friends. I have maintained communication with family members who stayed behind, a significant change from earlier when my concern for their safety limited my ability to reach out.

The challenges on the ground are profound; the nation grapples with severe economic distress and a lack of essential services such as electricity and water. Yet, there’s a collective sentiment of embarking on a fresh start. While there’s fear, it doesn’t paralyze us—we’re ready to take control of our futures.

Memories of Aleppo

Waad Al-Kateab: One specific memory that haunts me is our forced displacement from Aleppo. I had been prepared to confront the brutal reality of standing up against a regime that would not hesitate to commit atrocities. However, the siege of our city, marked by the absence of food, medicine, and basic utilities, followed by our compulsory departure, was an unbearable cruelty. Being uprooted from our homeland was a breaking point for me, forcing me to bid farewell to the very essence of my life.

For years, I suppressed thoughts of returning to Aleppo, as it seemed beyond reach. But now, as I see friends sharing pictures of familiar locales, I feel a renewed urgency to be there myself.

Shifts in Perspectives

Waad Al-Kateab: The toughest battles may indeed be behind us. What lies ahead will present its own set of challenges, but the immediate threat of violence is no longer looming. Now we confront numerous pressing issues such as transitional justice, the fate of detainees, and those who remain unaccounted for. Discussions about the economy, which has plummeted, are equally urgent.

As we begin anew, many authorities, agendas, and international players are involved in shaping Syria’s direction. While this burden feels significant, we remain determined and equipped to tackle it, optimistic about what lays ahead.

Accountability for the Future

Waad Al-Kateab: It’s essential to recognize Bashar Al-Assad’s culpability for the devastation; however, many others contributed to this crisis, including those who executed his orders and foreign allies. The future of Syria hinges on our collective acknowledgment of these atrocities. True accountability must commence with heartfelt apologies and culminate in holding all responsible parties accountable.

Currently, various militia groups retain their arms, complicating the process of forging a new governance structure. Addressing these realities is imperative for victims who now seek answers about their future and how to reclaim normalcy in their lives.

Thoughts on Returning

Waad Al-Kateab: After spending nearly a decade in the UK, my family and I had not envisioned this moment. We’ve built a life away from Syria and, in teaching our daughters about their homeland, I also sought to shield them from its pain. They’ve internalized much more than I realized, perceiving Syria as a place marred by violence and loss.

The prospect of returning has stirred a mix of complicated feelings for them. As for my husband and me, the desire to return is strong. We plan to visit and then hold a family discussion about our future, ensuring our daughters’ voices are integral to whatever decisions we make.

Role in Rebuilding Syria

Waad Al-Kateab: Our advocacy work has extended across various communities globally, raising awareness of the Syrian crisis. The preservation of our narrative remains crucial as we forge ahead. My commitment transcends just my film, For Sama, as I want to return to Syria with the experiences I’ve gained and utilize them to foster dialogue and healing within my homeland.

Created spaces for open dialogue will lay the groundwork for transitional justice and acknowledgment, allowing local communities to share their experiences and begin the healing process together.

A Message for the Global Community

Waad Al-Kateab: Understanding Syria’s conflict demands recognizing its unique complexities. Attempts to liken it to other situations, such as Iraq or Afghanistan, overlook key differences. The trajectory of the regime’s collapse remains uncertain, and with U.S. foreign aid diminishing, the risk of civil society’s collapse in Syria looms large.

Organizations that have stood for justice and civilian protection face daunting challenges. For a successful transition, it is vital that this process be led by Syrians, free from external armed interventions. The international community holds a moral obligation to support the aspirations of the Syrian people for genuine peace, justice, and accountability.

Source
news.un.org