Article Title
Historic Marketplaces: Balancing Historic Preservation and Economic Revitalization

Date
06 August 2024 

Credits
Author: Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj 
Editor: Nihad Alamiri 

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-souks-from-cultural-heritage-to-economic-viability

Summary
This article explores the complex challenges and opportunities involved in revitalizing historic marketplaces, or souks, in the Arab region. Historically, these souks were central to urban economies, social networks, and cultural life. However, modern economic shifts have led to their decline, raising important questions about how to preserve their cultural heritage while ensuring their economic viability. The article examines the ethical considerations of using public funds for souk restoration, outlines strategic justifications for such investments, and proposes innovative approaches to support sustainable revitalization. By balancing cultural preservation with economic development, the article offers a framework for revitalizing these historic marketplaces in a way that honors their past while fostering their future.

Souks of the Arab World: From Cultural Heritage to Economic Viability

Article Title 
The Political Economy of City-Regions: Lessons Learnt for the Post-Conflict Recovery

Date
2 April 2024

Credits
Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj 
Zedoun Alzoubi 
Jadd Hallaj 

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-economic-fault-lines

Summary
This article explores the political economy of city-regions and its implications for post-conflict recovery. It examines how cities, as centers of economic extraction and wealth accumulation, shape urban-rural dynamics, contributing to both civil unrest and peacebuilding. Through case studies from Sierra Leone, Liberia, India, Colombia, and Syria, the article highlights the role of urban centrality in conflict and recovery. Key recommendations include decentralizing governance, fostering urban-rural connectivity, and reconfiguring value chains to support inclusive and sustainable development. By addressing these local dynamics, the article argues for a nuanced approach to post-conflict recovery that goes beyond traditional top-down political solutions.

Economic Fault Lines: Urban-Rural Dynamics and Post-Conflict Recovery

Article Title 
The Paradigm of Early Recovery and Peacebuilding

Date
04 June 2024

Credits
Author: Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj
Editor: Nihad Alamiri

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-the-paradigm-of-early-recovery-and-peacebuilding

Summary
This article explores the shift towards early recovery as a new paradigm in addressing the ongoing crisis in Syria, as highlighted by recent discussions at the Brussels Conference. It examines the necessity of transitioning from a humanitarian aid focus to a strategy that leverages local resources and revitalizes the economy, while also addressing the political complexities that hinder long-term stability. The article argues for a change in mindset among Western donors and Syrian political actors, emphasizing the importance of transparency, state regulation, and inclusive solutions that prioritize the needs of the Syrian people. Practical recommendations are provided for fostering local agency, maintaining political dialogue, and incentivizing incremental progress towards recovery and peacebuilding.

The Paradigm of Early Recovery and Peacebuilding

Article Title
On the Relationship between Identity and Citizenship

Date
09 July 2024

Credits
Author:  Zedoun Alzoubi
Author:  Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj 
Editor:  Nihad Alamiri

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-identity-citizenship-and-quest-for-national-unity-in-syria

Summary
This article examines the complex interplay between identity and citizenship within the ongoing discussions of the Syrian Constitutional Committee. It explores the divergent perspectives that have stalled the constitutional process—one that prioritizes identity as the foundation of state legitimacy and another that emphasizes equal citizenship as the basis of nationhood. Through a detailed analysis of key issues such as religious belief and language, the article argues for the necessity of integrating identity into the framework of citizenship to ensure a cohesive and inclusive Syrian state. Drawing on international examples, it highlights how other nations have successfully balanced these principles, offering insights for Syria's path forward. The article ultimately calls for a constitutional approach that embraces both identity and citizenship as essential components of national unity and stability.

Identity, Citizenship, and the Quest for National Unity in Syria

Article Title
Leveraging Living Heritage for Peace Building: A Step Beyond the Preservation of Heritage Assets in Conflict Zones

Date
23 July 2024

Credits
Eva Ziedan
Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-leveraging-living-heritage-for-peace-building

Summary
This paper explores the potential of leveraging living heritage as a tool for peacebuilding in conflict zones, using Syria as a case study. Traditional top-down heritage conservation methods, often rooted in Eurocentric standards, have alienated local communities and exacerbated social divisions. The paper argues for a shift towards inclusive, community-driven approaches that prioritize living traditions and socio-economic development, thereby fostering social cohesion and resilience. Key recommendations include adopting a living heritage approach, promoting inclusive narratives, enhancing genuine community participation, and integrating socio-economic strategies. By embracing these strategies, heritage conservation can play a crucial role in sustainable peacebuilding and recovery in conflict-affected regions.

Leveraging Living Heritage for Peace Building

Article Title
Citizenship and Group Rights in Syria

Date
26 July 2024

Credits
Zedoun Alzoubi 

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-citizenship-and-group-rights-in-post-conflict-syria

Summary
This article explores the complexities of citizenship and group rights in the context of Syria's ongoing conflict and democratic transition. It critically examines various interpretations of citizenship, from regional models based on group rights to secular, human rights-based approaches. Drawing on Will Kymlicka’s theory, the article argues for a balanced integration of individual and group rights, emphasizing the necessity of constitutional protections to safeguard minority identities and prevent the dominance of majority identity. By analyzing global examples, such as Canada and South Africa, the article highlights the importance of protecting both individual and group rights to achieve true inclusivity and stability in Syria's future political landscape. The discussion aims to move beyond polarized views, advocating for a nuanced understanding of rights as a spectrum that must be carefully managed to foster a more inclusive society.

Bridging Divides: Citizenship and Group Rights in Post-Conflict Syria

Article Title
Navigating the Damascus-Ankara Rapprochement: Prospects for a United Syria

Date
20 August 2024

Credits
Author: Zedoun Alzoubi 
Author: Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj 
Editor (EN): Nihad Alamiri

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-exploring-the-potential-of-the-damascus-ankara-rapprochement

Summary
This article examines the strategic rapprochement between Damascus and Ankara, exploring its potential impact on Syria's future. It analyzes key areas of cooperation and conflict, including shared security concerns, economic opportunities, refugee repatriation, and the challenges posed by armed factions in northern Syria. The article also considers the implications for the Syrian opposition and the broader regional stability, offering insights into how this evolving relationship might influence the trajectory of the Syrian conflict and the prospects for a unified Syria.

Beyond Hostility: Exploring the Potential of the Damascus-Ankara Rapprochement

Article Title
Democracy and Identity: A Tale of Two Regions—Europe and the Arab World

Date
15 September 2024

Credits
Author: Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj
Editor (EN): Nihad Alamiri

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-democracy-and-identity-a-tale-of-two-regions 

Summary
This article examines the ongoing democracy crisis in the Arab world, focusing on the unresolved tension between governance and collective identity. Drawing comparisons with Europe's historical democratic evolution, it highlights how Arab states, shaped by post-colonial agreements, struggle with fragile national identities. The article explores how current democratic efforts emphasize tolerance over true equality and questions whether the region will experience a long-term transition to a fully realized democratic system, similar to Europe’s gradual shift over centuries.

Democracy and Identity: A Tale of Two Regions—Europe and the Arab World

Article Title
Navigating Intercultural Challenges in Partnerships: Lessons from Local NGOs in the MENA Region

Date
08 October 2024

Credits
Author: Zedoun Alzoubi
Editor: Nihad Alamiri

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-bridging-cultures-strengthening-ngo-partnerships-in-mena 

Summary
This article explores the intercultural challenges faced by local NGOs in the MENA region when collaborating with international partners. It examines key issues such as power dynamics, communication differences, result-oriented approaches versus process-driven strategies, and gender sensitivities. The article offers practical solutions for fostering equitable, transparent, and culturally sensitive partnerships, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of NGO collaborations in the region.

Navigating Intercultural Challenges in Partnerships: Lessons from Local NGOs in the MENA Region

Paper Title
Between the Normative and the Political: A Study on the Decentralization Experience in Tunisia

Date
1 October 2024

Credits
- Author: Hasan Masri 
- Author: Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj 
- Editor (EN): Nihad Alamiri

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-decentralization-or-recentralization-tunisia-governance-shifts 

Summary
This paper analyzes Tunisia’s decentralization efforts post-2011, revealing how political conflicts, especially between central parties, obstructed local governance reforms. It argues that the focus on the normative legal frameworks missed deeper political issues, ultimately leading to recentralization of the political system under President Saied, under the guise of maintaining national unity and control.

Between the Normative and the Political: A Study on the Decentralization Experience in Tunisia

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Summary
The paper analyzes Tunisia’s decentralization efforts post-2011, revealing how political conflicts, especially between central parties, obstructed local governance reforms. It argues that the focus on the normative legal frameworks missed deeper political issues, ultimately leading to recentralization of the political system under President Saied, under the guise of maintaining national unity and control.


Date
1 October 2024

Link to Paper
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-decentralization-or-recentralization-tunisia-governance-shifts 

Link to Audio Paper 
https://soundcloud.com/lugarit/between-the-normative-and-the-political-a-study-on-the-decentralization-experience-in-tunisia


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This audio was prepared using experimental AI technology, and we welcome feedback from listeners to help us refine and enhance future content. Please note that AI can occasionally make errors, so we invite you to explore the full article on our website for complete and accurate insights.

A Conversation About Decentralization in Tunisia (Youth Edition)

Article Title
Governance Challenges in the Upcoming Phase: General Concepts

Date
3 January 2025

Credits
A collaboration between LUGARIT and Omran Center for Strategic Studies.

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-redefining-governance-for-a-post-conflict-syria 

Summary
An article examines governance challenges in post-Assad Syria, emphasizing the need for structural reforms, economic recovery, and social reconciliation. It highlights lessons from Idlib's governance while stressing the importance of adapting to diverse contexts. Achieving legitimacy, fostering inclusivity, and balancing stability with economic growth are critical for sustainable national governance and recovery.

📷 Photo: The Presidential Palace overlooking the capitol after the fall of the Assad regime. Damascus, Syria. 9 December 2024.  Photo © Mohammad Bash - via ShutterStock.

Redefining Governance for a Post-Conflict Syria

Paper Title:
Sinjar, Iraq: Local Conflicts, Conflict Resolution and Visions for Peace

Date:
21 January 2025

Publisher: 
LUGARIT

Author: 
Dr. Esther Meininghaus

Summary:
This paper examines Sinjar's interconnected conflicts, including insecurity from armed groups, impunity for genocide perpetrators, land disputes, and challenges faced by Yazidi women and children. It critiques ineffective resolution mechanisms and emphasizes the need for political solutions, justice reforms, and inclusive recovery efforts to rebuild trust and foster lasting peace.

Link:
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-sinjars-struggles-and-hopes-a-vision-for-peace 


Sinjar, Iraq: Local Conflicts, Conflict Resolution and Visions for Peace

Paper Title
Aggregating Power: The Territorial Orders of Syria

Date
January 2025

Publisher 
LUGARIT + Omran Center for Strategic Studies 

Authors
Authors: Jadd Hallaj, Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj, Hassan Masri

Summary
This paper examines Syria's territorial governance, how the spatial patterns of administrative divisions evolved over the last century. The paper traces the deep patterns of centralization and manipulation of local districting as a means of consolidating centralized control rather than supporting equitable distribution of resources and enhancing development procsses. It critiques Decree 107’s failure to achieve decentralization and highlights fragmented governance models across different regions in Syria. Recommendations focus on addressing systemic imbalances, leveraging cities as hubs, and balancing rural-urban roles to foster equitable and sustainable development.

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/publications/publication-syrias-governance-puzzle-unpacking-its-territorial-orders

Aggregating Power: The Territorial Orders of Syria

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