A new chapter unfolds in syria as a period of celebratory transition ends.After half a century under the Assad regime, the country faces an uncertain future. The monumental task of building a free, stable, and prosperous Syria falls upon the shoulders of Mohammed al-Bashir, the newly appointed interim prime minister, chosen by the HTS rebels.
His mandate is short-lived, stretching until March 1st, 2025. However, al-BashirS first statements highlight the severe financial constraints plaguing the nation, with limited foreign currency reserves. The challenge ahead is daunting.
Effective coordination is crucial for any external financial aid to be prosperous. Thea Hilhorst, a professor of humanitarian studies at Erasmus University Rotterdam, emphasizes the risk of corruption jeopardizing reconstruction efforts, especially in a post-conflict surroundings where institutions are fragile.
Harmonized aid delivery, she explains, can prevent rival countries from exploiting the situation to advance their interests. Sander van hoorn, a Middle East expert and former NOS correspondent, adds that without a clear channel for aid distribution, countries with vested interests might channel funds to specific groups in Syria, further complicating the situation.
Beyond the geographical influence of nations like Turkey, America, Jordan, Iraq, and Iran, the power vacuum also threatens internal stability. The quest for a unified Syria faces numerous hurdles, as different factions control various regions.
Despite the challenges, there are glimmers of hope. Notable is the promise voiced by Ahmed al-Sharaa, the leader of the rebel group HTS, to rebuild the country. The speed and fairness of this reconstruction are critical factors in restoring public trust and preventing renewed conflict.
The success hinges on inclusive participation and equitable distribution of aid. Hilhorst stresses the importance of ensuring all segments of syrian society benefit equally from the rebuilding efforts. Neglecting certain groups could ignite resentment and further instability.
A collaborative approach, prioritizing transparency and fairness, is essential for Syria to avoid the same fate as Iraq. Success hinges on a commitment to national reconciliation and a shared future for all syrians.
What challenges does the new interim government in Syria face in the aftermath of the Assad regime’s end?
Time.news Interview: Building a New Future for Syria with Dr. Thea Hilhorst
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Hilhorst. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the critical developments in Syria following the end of the Assad regime. With the appointment of Mohammed al-Bashir as the interim prime minister, what are your initial thoughts on the challenges that lie ahead?
Dr. Thea Hilhorst: Thank you for having me.The appointment of al-bashir is a significant step, but we must acknowledge that he is entering a landscape fraught with challenges, notably financial constraints and the risk of corruption.with such limited foreign currency reserves, any efforts to rebuild Syria will be hampered significantly without effective coordination of international aid.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the importance of coordination in aid distribution. How can this be effectively implemented to ensure it reaches those in need?
Dr. Hilhorst: Harmonized aid delivery is essential. We need to establish clear channels for aid that prevent rival nations from exploiting the situation for their own agenda. Countries with vested interests in the region—like Turkey, the U.S., and Iran—risk diverting funds to specific factions, thereby exacerbating an already fragmented landscape. An inclusive approach to aid distribution is necessary to ensure that all segments of Syrian society, particularly marginalized groups, are accounted for.
Time.news Editor: What are the implications of a divided aid distribution system on internal stability in Syria?
Dr. Hilhorst: If aid is not equitably distributed, we may see increased resentment among those left out, which could reignite conflict.given the existing divisions among various factions controlling diffrent regions, it’s crucial for the newly formed government to assure equal treatment and access to resources. Only then can we hope for a genuinely unified Syria.
Time.news Editor: Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of the HTS rebel group, has voiced a commitment to rebuilding Syria. Do you believe this commitment can turn into action, and what must happen for this rebuilding campaign to be successful?
Dr. Hilhorst: his promise is encouraging, but it must translate into effective, fair, and speedy reconstruction efforts. The initial phases of rebuilding will be critical in restoring public trust. A collaborative approach prioritizing clarity in aid allocation and implementation is key to success. Without a concerted effort towards national reconciliation—where all voices are heard and valued—any reconstruction initiative can fail, potentially leading Syria down a path similar to Iraq’s.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of Iraq, what lessons should be drawn from their post-conflict reconstruction efforts to ensure Syria’s success?
Dr. Hilhorst: Iraq’s experience underscores the importance of inclusive governance and equitable aid distribution. Failure to engage all groups can foster divisions and resentment. Additionally, focusing on building institutions that are resilient and accountable will be crucial for preventing corruption and ensuring public confidence. The Syrian government must commit to a transparent process and work towards inclusivity for its reconstruction efforts to be fruitful.
Time.news Editor: what practical advice would you give to our readers regarding international support for Syria’s transition?
Dr. Hilhorst: For those looking to support Syria’s transition positively, advocating for transparency in aid distribution and promoting policies that prioritize collective welfare is essential.Engaging with organizations focused on humanitarian assistance and encouraging dialogue among different Syrian factions can also create pathways for peace and stability. Every effort counts,and the international community must be vigilant about ensuring aid reaches all corners of Syria fairly.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Hilhorst,for sharing your insights on the complex and evolving situation in Syria. Your perspectives on inclusive rebuilding and effective aid distribution are invaluable as we look to the future.
Dr. Hilhorst: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these significant issues. Together, we can hope for a brighter future for Syria.