In a continued effort to foster national dialogue, the DeFacto platform organized a high-level forum in Damascus to discuss Syrians’ aspirations for a new constitution and their understanding of a constitutional declaration during the transitional period.
The event brought together a diverse group of politicians, civil society activists, and public affairs experts, who engaged in a deep and multifaceted discussion reflecting Syria’s complex political and social realities.
One of the most prominent topics was the future shape of the Syrian state, with a special focus on the Kurdish issue. Participants explored questions of national partnership, the role of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), and the political agreement between President Ahmad al-Sharaa and SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi.
The dialogue emphasized the importance of recognizing Syria’s diversity and broadening national dialogue to include all segments of society. Participants agreed that inclusive partnerships are essential for unifying the country in the face of internal fragmentation and foreign interference.
There was a shared call to defend national unity and reject narrow loyalties that threaten the broader Syrian identity.
On the subject of the constitutional declaration, attendees highlighted the need for its revision, citing structural gaps that hinder national belonging and undermine public trust in the state. Concerns were also raised over the lack of clarity regarding citizenship, rights, and duties in the current text.
Speakers stressed that any future constitution must safeguard civil liberties, protect the rights of the accused, and prohibit arbitrary prosecution. They called for reform of civil laws and warned against replicating the mechanisms of the previous regime. A new social contract rooted in dignity and justice was presented as a vital path forward.
The forum concluded with a number of key recommendations, including:
- Deepening dialogue as a means of mutual understanding and reconciliation.
- Establishing clear mechanisms for transitional justice and accountability.
- Recognizing subnational identities within a unified national framework.
- Promoting participatory governance to achieve national interests and social stability.
- Affirming the sovereignty of the Syrian state over its entire territory while guaranteeing the rights of all communities, including the Kurds.
- Rejecting divisive rhetoric and “wars of terminology” that fuel discord.
Participants unanimously agreed that emerging from Syria’s fragile transitional phase requires genuine political will and a constitution that reflects the aspirations of all Syrians—anchored in the values of dignity, justice, and national partnership.
