A recent survey indicates that 70% of Syrians are optimistic about the future, despite economic chaos and recent violence. The interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa faces the challenge of revitalizing the economy while navigating Western sanctions. Lifting these sanctions may enable Syria to reconnect with the global economy and rebuild, ultimately stabilizing the region and preventing extremism.
The recent survey conducted in Syria provides a surprisingly optimistic outlook amidst a turbulent political and economic landscape. Despite the aftermath of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, where the economy is deeply damaged and sectarian violence has erupted, approximately 70% of Syrians express hope for the future. This sentiment creates an opportunity for both interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Western nations eager to assist Syria’s revival.
The polling results reveal that 80% of participants feel more liberated than during Assad’s rule, with a similar proportion holding a favourable view of Mr. Sharaa’s leadership. Remarkably, two-thirds of respondents report an improvement in security despite the ongoing unrest. These figures, while reflecting the trauma experienced in the nation, imply a trust in Mr. Sharaa to spearhead the reconstruction efforts needed.
Since his appointment as interim president, Mr. Sharaa has initiated critical steps, such as forming a cabinet, albeit one dominated by his supporters with notable inclusion of minority representation and technocrats. This cabinet’s effectiveness in actual governance is crucial, particularly to alleviate concerns about centralisation of authority under Mr. Sharaa. Furthermore, he must unify the fragmented armed groups to mitigate potential sectarian reprisals.
Revitalizing Syria’s devastated economy remains Mr. Sharaa’s central challenge, as per the survey, 58% believe the economy has worsened since his tenure began. Many civil servants have not received salaries, leading to a dire financial scenario. The persistence of Western sanctions, originally intended to target Assad, now severely restricts the new government’s ability to engage with the global economy, costing Syria crucial foreign investment needed for recovery.
While skepticism exists in the West regarding Mr. Sharaa due to his jihadist past, hesitance to act could fuel extremism and violence. The provision of aid could be structured to ensure sanctions would reapply should the regime revert to extremist practices. For now, the Syrian populace seems to trust in Mr. Sharaa’s intentions, suggesting it is imperative for the West to lift sanctions to afford these enduring citizens a real opportunity to reconstruct their war-torn nation.
In summary, the optimistic sentiment expressed by a significant majority of Syrians highlights a potential pathway for recovery. However, this path is obstructed by ongoing Western sanctions that stifle economic revival. By fostering a supportive environment through lifted sanctions, the international community can empower the new government under Mr. Sharaa to effectively lead the process of rebuilding. This course of action is imperative to prevent a resurgence of extremism and encourage a stable future for Syria.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
