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
Beyond Angels and Devils: Syria and the Paradigm of Reconciliation Vs. Partition

Date
20 June 2024

Credits
Zedoun Alzoubi
Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-syria-and-the-paradigm-of-reconciliation-vs-partition

Summary
This article critically examines the complexities surrounding the concept of reconciliation in Syria, which has often been misunderstood as surrender or betrayal. The authors argue that genuine reconciliation requires an inclusive, Syrian-led dialogue addressing critical issues such as justice, the fate of detainees, displaced populations, and the integration of armed groups. The article underscores the necessity of breaking political taboos and engaging in sustained, pragmatic conversations to build a unified Syrian society, as outlined in UN Resolution 2254, while acknowledging the significant challenges that remain.

Beyond Angels and Devils: Syria and the Paradigm of Reconciliation Vs. Partition

Article Title
Syrian Refugees in Neighboring Countries: A Complex Predicament with No Immediate Solution

Date
25 June 2024

Credits
Author: Zedoun Alzoubi
Editor: Nihad Alamiri

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-between-politics-and-desperation-syrian-refugees-in-limbo

Summary
This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the Syrian refugee crisis in neighboring countries, emphasizing the complex political, economic, and social dynamics that hinder sustainable solutions. It explores the Syrian regime's reluctance to facilitate the return of refugees, the regional challenges faced by host countries like Turkey, Lebanon, and Jordan, and the limited influence of international actors such as the European Union. The article argues that addressing the refugee issue in isolation is futile without a broader political agreement and highlights the potential for localized solutions to improve conditions for refugees and host communities. The Syrian refugee crisis is depicted as a multifaceted challenge that remains unresolved, requiring concerted efforts for meaningful progress.

Caught Between Politics and Desperation: Syrian Refugees in Limbo

Article Title
Moving from Highly Centralized to Decentralized Governance Models:  A Preliminary Framework for Analysing Political and Economic Drivers

Date
02 July 2024

Credits
Hassan Masri
Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj

Link
https://www.lugarit.com/commentary/commentary-from-centralized-to-decentralized-governance

Summary
This paper provides a framework for analyzing the political and economic drivers that prompt highly centralized governance systems to pursue decentralization. Moving beyond the simplistic dichotomy of democratization versus authoritarianism, the study explores five key drivers—power balances, legitimacy, economic challenges, peripheral uprisings, and external influences—using global case studies. It emphasizes the complexity and context-dependence of decentralization processes, highlighting that successful outcomes require more than just normative frameworks. Instead, effective decentralization demands continuous adaptation, stakeholder engagement, and alignment of central and local governance roles over extended periods of time.

Exploring the Shift: Centralized to Decentralized Governance

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

LUGARIT is a small think tank active in international development.

New tracks tagged #SoundCloudArticles