A concluding statement from the one-day conference, which was announced just two days earlier, set the stage for the drafting of a new constitution and underscored the significance of freedom of expression and human rights.
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who attended the conference, had previously urged Syrians to unite and work together to heal their nation after years of dictatorship.
What will Syria’s new constitution be?
The revolutionary nature of Syria’s transition called for a new constitution, the specifics of which will greatly determine the country’s future. The ambitious scope of the constitution aims to strike a balance between authorities and to establish justice, freedom, and equality while laying the foundations for a state governed by the rule of law and its institutions. The details of how the constitution will be formed remain unclear, as conference children were confidential, with days left before the March 1 deadline for a new transitional government.
Sovereignty and Israel’s actions
The National Dialogue’s closing statement denounced Israel’s actions in Syria as a violation of Syrian sovereignty. It called for the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of Israeli forces from Syria and opposed efforts to fragment or divide the country. The committee emphasized the unity of the Syrian Arab Republic and sovereignty over its entire territory. The dialogue has also opposed to Israel’s attempts to stir sectarian tensions and protect the Druze community, many of whom live in southern Syria.
Rights and freedoms
The closing statement of the National Dialogue supported the role of women in all fields and rejected all forms of discrimination based on race, religion, or sect. It also denounced calls for ethnic or religious quotas in government and called for the protection of freedoms, including the freedom of opinion and expression. This marks a significant shift from the previous regime, where such expression often led to imprisonment. The statement also touched on transitional justice and holding responsible for crimes while rejecting violence, incitement, and revenge.
Was the National Dialogue put together too quickly?
The National Dialogue was rapidly organized, with late invitations causing confusion among potential attendees. Critics argued that the quick nature of the event, coupled with a lack of information regarding the future of elections and the representation within the preparatory committee, raised concerns about the legitimacy of the discussions. Despite this, around 600 Syrians attended the talks, suggesting that it was an important milestone in the journey towards democratic elections and a Syria free from decades of authoritarian rule.
