Syria's Transitional Government Moves Forward with Constitutional Declaration

Syria’s interim government has taken a pivotal step in the country’s post-Assad transition by establishing a seven-member committee to draft a constitutional declaration. This marks a significant moment in Syria’s path toward stability and democratic governance, following the fall of the Assad regime on December 8, 2024. The committee, appointed by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, is tasked with filling the legal vacuum left by the annulment of the 2012 constitution and guiding the country towards a new era.

The constitutional committee’s work is crucial in Syria's broader efforts to rebuild after years of civil war. The government has already implemented significant changes, such as dissolving the parliament, dismantling security agencies accused of human rights violations, and suspending exceptional laws. The leadership has promised to establish a new security apparatus to protect citizens and to lay the groundwork for Syria’s eventual reconstruction and democratic future.

Committee Composition and Mandate

The committee is composed of legal scholars and experts from various regions of Syria, including two women: Riyan Kahilan, head of the public law department at Damascus University, and Bahia Mardini, a journalist and international law expert. Mardini’s appointment has sparked controversy due to her past associations with Jamil Hassan, the former Syrian Air Force Intelligence chief who is under international sanctions.

Other members of the committee include Abdul Hamid al-Awak, a legal advisor at the Stabilization Support Unit in northern Syria, and Yasser al-Huwaish, dean of the Faculty of Law at Damascus University, among others. The committee is tasked with drafting a constitutional declaration that will act as a temporary framework for governance, ensuring Syria’s transition to stability and justice.

National and International Implications

The drafting process has drawn regional and international attention. Neighboring countries, such as Lebanon and Jordan, which host millions of Syrian refugees, have expressed hope that a stable Syria will allow the gradual return of displaced populations. However, major global powers, including the United States, have issued cautious statements, urging transparency and broad-based representation in the new framework.

Russia and Iran, former allies of the Assad regime, have yet to make detailed comments. Analysts suggest that these countries may exert influence on the transitional government to ensure that their strategic interests are safeguarded in the final constitutional declaration.

A Critical Moment for Syria’s Future

Syria’s constitutional declaration is a defining moment in the country’s journey towards peace and stability. While the leaked provisions have ignited debates over governance, political inclusion, and the protection of democratic principles, the coming months will be crucial as the committee works on finalizing the draft. Syrians, both within the country and abroad, will closely monitor the process, hoping that this historic moment will mark the beginning of a just and peaceful future for Syria.