After a rapid offensive by Syrian opposition forces that lasted less than two weeks, Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria has come to an end. The president and his family are believed to have fled the country just before rebels entered the capital, Damascus. This marks a significant political turning point in the Arab region since the end of World War II and the creation of Israel in 1948.
The overthrow of al-Assad is cause for celebration, but the future of Syria remains uncertain with various local and external players involved. The Syrian people seek a decent life, respect, and a voice in their governance. The Syrian experience highlights the devastating impact of autocratic rule in the Arab region, which has led to economic ruin and societal strife.
The Syrian uprising reveals the shared traits of Arab autocracies – lack of pluralism, government brutality, corruption, and disconnect between citizens and the state. The legacy of military-run Arab governments, starting with Egypt’s 1952 revolution, has led to a decline in opportunities for Arabs outside of wealthy oil-producing states.
Repression by Arab governments has fueled anger and desperation among citizens, leading to challenges to state authority and the rise of armed groups. The Syrian conflict has shown the failure of Arab autocrats to govern effectively and listen to their people. The region cannot sustain the current state and economic systems that have failed to provide stability, sovereignty, citizenship, and human development.
The events in Syria should serve as a wake-up call for Arab leaders to address the grievances of their citizens and move towards genuine democracy and development. The author, who has documented Arab societies for over half a century, emphasizes the need for a new approach to governance that respects the will of the people. The world must pay attention to the aspirations of ordinary Arabs for freedom and dignity and support their quest for a better future.
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