DeFacto
On February 9, the DeFacto Dialogue platform, in collaboration with the Stability Support Center and the Humanitarian and Development Cooperation Organization (HDC), hosted the “Dialogue for Raqqa” forum. The event aimed to foster reconciliation, peaceful coexistence, and a culture of dialogue among the diverse communities of Raqqa and its countryside.
The forum brought together 30 participants from various sectors of the local community, including teachers, lawyers, politicians, journalists, religious leaders, tribal elders, representatives of political movements, civil society organizations, and local authorities of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES).
Throughout its sessions, the forum provided a secure environment for open discussions on mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence. Participants addressed key challenges hindering inclusive decision-making and explored ways to rebuild trust between the local community and governing authorities to ensure that all voices are heard.
By analyzing barriers to participation and proposing solutions, the forum sought to develop effective strategies to enhance transparency and encourage active engagement from all societal components. Discussions generated innovative ideas and policy recommendations that could contribute to stability and sustainable development in Raqqa.
Raqqa’s Community and the Impact of War
Participants highlighted the city’s rich cultural diversity and the hardships endured due to war and destruction. They emphasized the importance of shielding Raqqa from further devastation and called on all parties to make compromises in favor of national interest, citizenship principles, and constitutional rights.
The discussions underscored the vital role of religious institutions and clerics in promoting dialogue and preventing division within society. Additionally, cultural policies were recognized as crucial in shaping social identity.
Concerns were raised over the lack of effective public services and the impact of widespread corruption, rooted in the legacy of Ba’ath Party rule and prolonged conflict in Syria.
Community Relations with Local Authorities
A significant focus was placed on the potential role of local leaders, intellectuals, and opinion-makers in rebuilding social cohesion and justice in Raqqa. However, some participants expressed frustration over the unfulfilled promises of previous meetings, where pressing needs and service-related issues were discussed but not addressed.
Criticism was also directed at the lack of effective security measures, particularly the release of individuals convicted of criminal offenses under amnesty decisions, which has contributed to instability.
Discussions emphasized the role of complaints mechanisms and regulatory bodies in improving public services, monitoring institutions for better governance, preventing market exploitation, and enhancing neighborhood security to curb crime and theft. Participants stressed that freedom of expression alone is insufficient unless it translates into tangible improvements in daily life.
Challenges to Public Participation
The forum highlighted the significance of public participation in decision-making and the role of awareness campaigns in demonstrating its impact on citizens’ lives.
Concerns were raised regarding political and social restrictions that deter individuals from voicing their opinions due to fear of potential consequences, particularly regarding women’s involvement in economic and political matters.
Additionally, economic pressures, including unemployment and poor living conditions, were identified as factors that hinder civic engagement and reduce opportunities for community interactions.
Forum Recommendations
To address these challenges and foster a more inclusive and participatory environment, the forum proposed the following recommendations:
- Infrastructure Development: Improve public facilities and social centers to host dialogue events and community discussions.
- Formation of Local Committees: Establish inclusive committees representing diverse societal groups to facilitate participatory decision-making.
- Social Justice Enhancement: Ensure equal access to services and create new job opportunities to encourage civic engagement.
- Security Stabilization: Implement effective measures to combat crime and enhance public safety.
- Complaint and Feedback Channels: Establish responsive mechanisms for receiving and addressing citizens’ grievances and suggestions.
- Legal Reforms: Develop laws that safeguard citizens’ rights to participation and provide mechanisms to exercise them.
- Support for Civil Society Organizations: Empower civil society groups to act as intermediaries between the public and local authorities.
- Cultural and Artistic Activities: Organize cultural events to strengthen social bonds among different community groups.
- Interfaith and Cross-Cultural Dialogue: Promote platforms for discussions among religious and cultural groups to foster mutual understanding.
- Youth and Women’s Inclusion: Develop specialized programs to empower youth and women in leadership and decision-making roles.
- Capacity Building and Leadership Training: Offer training programs focused on leadership, social harmony, and effective governance.
- Educational Initiatives: Integrate civic education and community engagement principles into school curricula.
- Accessible Information: Enhance access to public information through digital platforms and media outlets.
- Media Transparency: Strengthen local media to represent community concerns fairly and increase transparency in policy decisions.
- Psychosocial Support: Provide mental health services for individuals affected by conflict to empower them for active participation.
- Expert Engagement: Involve specialists from various fields in public discussions to provide informed solutions and conduct workshops on decision-making and governance.
Conclusion
The “Dialogue for Raqqa” forum underscored the critical need for inclusive dialogue, effective governance, and active citizen participation to build a stable and prosperous future for Raqqa. By fostering cooperation between the community and local authorities, the forum provided a platform for meaningful discussions and actionable solutions aimed at achieving sustainable development and long-term social cohesion.
