In an exclusive interview with Corriere della Sera, a prominent Italian newspaper, Syria’s transitional Prime Minister, Mohammed al-Bashir, has formally called upon the millions of Syrian refugees to return to their homeland. This appeal came in the wake of ousting former President Bashar al-Assad after the rebel forces ended his five-decade family reign on December 7th. Interim Prime Minister Al-Bashir further went on to emphasize the role of Syrian refugees in the country’s revival. He concluded that his first goal is to “bring back the millions of Syrian refugees who are abroad”.
“Their human capital, their experience will allow the country to flourish,” Al-Bashir concluded. The appeal comes as Syria emerges from 14 years of strife. The civil war had claimed over half a million lives and displaced millions of Syrians who were forced to seek refugee all over the world, which was also one of the most significant humanitarian crises in modern history.
Mine is an appeal to all Syrians abroad: Syria is now a free country that has earned its pride and dignity. Come back. We must rebuild, be reborn, and we need everyone’s help. – Syrian Transitional Prime Minister, Mohammed al-Bashir
A Vision For Inclusive Governance
The transitional Prime Minister also assured the international community as well as the domestic populace of the interim government’s commitment to inclusivity and justice. Interim Prime Minister Al-Bashir also vowed to safeguard the rights of all ethnic and religious groups in Syria.
We will guarantee the rights of all people and sects in Syria. This is a new era of unity and mutual respect. – Interim Prime Minister, Al-Bashir
International Support and Calls for Peace
Even Pope Francis weighed in on the Syrian transition during his general audience. He hoped that peace and interreligious harmony could reign victorious, stating:
I hope they find political solutions that, without other conflicts or divisions, responsibly promote the stability and unity of the country. May the different religions walk together in friendship and mutual respect for the good of the nation – Pope Francis
This perfectly reflects the sentiment of the international community and underscores their importance in supporting Syria’s efforts in rebuilding and reconstruction. As such, humanitarian organizations, international governments, and other bodies will play a critical part in ensuring this transition goes smoothly while supporting the safe return of refugees.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the growing optimism and support, the way forward is fraught with difficulties. The fall of the Assad regime, combined with Russia’s continued invasion of Ukraine and Israel’s military action on Syrian grounds, against allies like Iran and Hezbollah, has created a vacuum in leadership. This is also further accelerated by the geopolitical changes in the region.
The interim government has to navigate the complexities of rebuilding the fractured state of Syria while keeping in mind the minorities and the diverse communities. Thus, trust building would be at the top of the priority list.
A New Beginning for Syrian Refugees
The transitional prime minister’s call to action can be a new beginning for Syrian refugees. He has urged his fellow countrymen to come back and join the rebuilding efforts, framing it as an opportunity for Syria to reclaim its dignity.
Mine is an appeal to all Syrians abroad: Syria is now a free country. Come back
However, for millions of Syrian refugees who are spread across countries like Turkey, Jordan, and Europe, the decision to return will depend on the security measures taken by the interim government to ensure regional stability.
The Role of the International Community
Rebuilding a nation like Syria, which was embroiled in a civil war for nearly 14 years, is not going to be easy. It will require conscious and substantial support and cooperation from both international and domestic communities. However, transitional Prime Minister Al-Bashir’s assurances of inclusivity and justice can go a long way to spark hope in the hearts of millions of Syrians.
