{"id":1472,"date":"2025-02-13T09:19:15","date_gmt":"2025-02-13T09:19:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/defacto-sy.com\/?p=1472"},"modified":"2025-02-13T09:19:15","modified_gmt":"2025-02-13T09:19:15","slug":"dialogue-for-raqqa-a-forum-for-reconciliation-and-coexistence","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/defacto-sy.com\/?p=1472","title":{"rendered":"“Dialogue for Raqqa”: A Forum for Reconciliation and Coexistence"},"content":{"rendered":"

DeFacto<\/span> <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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On February 9, the DeFacto Dialogue<\/em> 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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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).<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Raqqa\u2019s Community and the Impact of War<\/span> <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Participants highlighted the city\u2019s 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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Community Relations with Local Authorities <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Challenges to Public Participation <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The forum highlighted the significance of public participation in decision-making and the role of awareness campaigns in demonstrating its impact on citizens’ lives.<\/span><\/p>\n

Concerns were raised regarding political and social restrictions that deter individuals from voicing their opinions due to fear of potential consequences, particularly regarding women\u2019s involvement in economic and political matters.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Additionally, economic pressures, including unemployment and poor living conditions, were identified as factors that hinder civic engagement and reduce opportunities for community interactions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Forum Recommendations <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

To address these challenges and foster a more inclusive and participatory environment, the forum proposed the following recommendations:<\/span><\/p>\n