Mass protests have emerged across Syria following the dismissal of thousands of public sector workers. The government, aiming for privatization and economic reforms, faces backlash from those who rely on state employment. Protests organized by groups like Democratic Change Workers emphasize demands for job reinstatement and an end to privatization, warning against worsening poverty in a nation already struggling economically.
Following the recent dismissal of thousands of public sector employees in Syria, including Ahlam Hassanien, protests have erupted nationwide. Hassanien, a former manager at Syrian Telecom, described how her termination disrupted her life and financial stability as she struggles to manage daily expenses and academic pressures while seeking employment amid a competitive job market. She lamented, “It wasn’t just a job with responsibilities: it was my only source of income, and my social life.”
Since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s administration, the new government has initiated plans to privatize public sector jobs, citing corruption and inefficiencies. Ahlam, who lost her position alongside other employees connected to the conflict, highlights the disarray within the public sector, emphasizing that many positions remain unfilled due to a lack of qualified candidates. She expressed, “We were not offered any compensation, and we are waiting for the judicial system to reopen so we can sue.”
The ruling Arab Socialist Ba’ath Party historically centralized Syria’s economy. Although efforts to introduce neoliberal reforms began under Bashar al-Assad, the public sector remains a primary employer with persistent allegations of corruption and mismanagement. Finance Minister Mohammad Abazeed noted that approximately 400,000 government employees are classified as inactive or non-existent, placing additional pressure on a sector already under scrutiny.
Protesters have called for reinstatement of all dismissed staff, citing the essential role public services play in society. According to the Democratic Change Workers (DCW), who have organized protests through social media, they demand an end to privatization, fearing it would jeopardize essential services and push the population further into poverty. A representative from DCW stated, “There is a strong link between the public sector and poor people – people rely heavily on state aid.”
Currently, around 90% of Syrians live in poverty, and humanitarian aid is increasingly critical for survival. Local reports indicate recent firings in the medical sector and ongoing workers’ protests underscore the alarm over proposed privatization measures. DCW has referenced national laws limiting arbitrary dismissals, preparing legal action in response to what they emphasize are unlawful terminations.
Joseph Daher, an academic specializing in Syria’s political economy, criticized the government’s neoliberal agenda, asserting that austerity measures would lead to increased poverty. He advocated for a comprehensive audit of the public sector to address employee needs and evaluate the socio-economic impacts of proposed changes.
In summary, as a consequence of significant public sector layoffs, an increasing number of demonstrators are mobilizing against government plans for privatization and austerity measures, which they believe threaten basic livelihoods and services essential to the Syrian populace. The demand for legal accountability and transparency remains a critical focus amid the ongoing protests, emphasizing a broader call for democratic inclusion in economic decision-making.
The recent wave of protests in Syria, initiated by mass layoffs in the public sector, highlights the severe impact on livelihoods and the urgent call for government accountability. As demonstrations continue to grow, the demands for restoration of jobs and opposition to privatization reflect the deep socio-economic concerns facing citizens. Critical voices assert the necessity for transparency and public participation in shaping the country’s economic future. This situation raises essential dialogues on the balance between necessary economic reforms and the protection of vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
