Unity, stability the key goals of Syria’s post-Baathist transition

The Baath Party, once a dominant force in the Arab world, has been reduced to a dwindling memory of its former rule, running down its legacy in Syria in the face of the Assad regime’s demise. Its collapse, following decades of repression and sociopolitical upheaval, marks the expiration of an ideology that shaped the region, but left a legacy of division and authoritarianism.
As Syria begins to navigate its post-Baathist transition, the lessons learned from Iraq’s de-Baathification offer a cautionary tale. The dissolution of Saddam Hussein’s Baath Party in 2003 led to serious consequences, including institutional collapse, widespread instability and sectarian violence. If Syria is to avoid repeating these mistakes, it must chart a different course: one that emphasizes unity, justice and the integrity of its national statehood.
The de-Baathification process in Iraq was swift and indiscriminate. More than 35,000 government employees lost their jobs overnight and thousands of military personnel were dismissed as the Iraqi army was dissolved. This dismantling of state institutions created a power vacuum that fueled anarchy and sectarian divisions and allowed the rise of extremist groups like Daesh.
Rather than addressing past grievances, Iraq’s de-Baathification actually deepened societal rifts. The campaign disproportionately targeted Sunni communities, perpetuating cycles of violence and mistrust. This experience underscores the importance of pursuing accountability in a manner that promotes reconciliation rather than retribution.
Syria’s path forward must prioritize inclusivity, justice and a vision for shared prosperity. Central to this vision will be the reform of state institutions, ensuring that they serve all citizens equitably, regardless of sect or ethnicity. This requires rebuilding governance structures on the principles of merit and fairness, fostering a system that includes voices that have been previously marginalized by decades of authoritarian rule.
The scale of the challenge is immense. According to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, as at the end of 2023, 16.7 million people in Syria required humanitarian assistance, the highest number since the onset of the crisis. Additionally, there are 7.2 million internally displaced persons as per the Joint Data Center on Forced Displacement, reflecting the devastating toll of conflict on the population. These figures underscore the urgency of comprehensive governance reforms and inclusive recovery plans to address the needs of the most vulnerable.

The international community must recognize the critical importance of safeguarding Syria’s sovereignty. 

Dr. Gyorgy Busztin

Accountability will also play a critical role in healing societal wounds. Establishing a transitional justice framework, rooted in international norms, is essential to address past grievances without resorting to collective punishment. By holding perpetrators of war crimes and human rights abuses accountable, Syria can begin to rebuild trust among its people.
Economic reconstruction stands as an equally urgent priority. Over the last decade, Syria’s economy has suffered a catastrophic decline, with its real gross domestic product contracting by about 84 percent between 2010 and 2023, according to the Middle East Council on Global Affairs. Estimates of the cost of rebuilding the nation’s infrastructure range between $400 billion and $600 billion, highlighting the monumental financial resources required for recovery, according to Arabian Gulf Business Insight.
This task will demand robust international support, particularly from the Gulf states, which have demonstrated their commitment to regional stability. Through partnerships and targeted investments, Syria can pave the way for sustainable development, job creation and the reintegration of displaced communities.
Moreover, regional and international cooperation is vital. Syria’s stability (or lack thereof) will have an effect that extends beyond its borders, impacting the broader Middle East. Collaborative efforts with neighboring countries and global institutions must be prioritized to ensure security and foster a peaceful transition. The UAE’s diplomatic leadership, with its emphasis on dialogue and humanitarian initiatives, offers a model for constructive engagement in Syria’s recovery process.
At the heart of this vision for the future lies the principle of unity. Preserving Syria’s territorial integrity is nonnegotiable and fragmentation along sectarian or ethnic lines risks further destabilization, potentially perpetuating cycles of violence. The international community must recognize the critical importance of safeguarding Syria’s sovereignty while promoting reconciliation and inclusivity.
The end of Baathist rule in Syria offers a historic opportunity to redefine the country’s future. By learning from its own past mistakes, along with others in the region, and prioritizing inclusivity, justice and unity, Syria can emerge as a stable and prosperous state.
The global community, particularly key regional actors, must rally around this vision. Through collaboration and shared commitment, Syria can transition from a fractured past to a cohesive future that serves as a beacon of hope for the region.

• Dr. Gyorgy Busztin is Diplomat-in-Residence at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy.