“Reviving the Consociationalism vs. Centripetalism Debate as Alternative Power-Sharing Models for Post-War Syria”

Abstract

This thesis seeks to explore a suitable power-sharing model for post-war Syria. It surveys the literature on the need for a power-sharing model as a conflict management tool in general and in Syria, the consociationalism vs. centripetalism debate, and the power-sharing models that scholars have suggested for the country. It also conducts a comparative case study of Lebanese and Iraqi power-sharing, looking into their successes and failures. in order to deduce policy lessons for Syria. Based on the case studies and the previous work of scholars, this study contends that only an “integrative” power-sharing model can help reach long-terms peace and stability in Syria. It thus proposes a first-step consociational power-sharing arrangement followed by the gradual time-bound introduction of centripetal elements. Such a model is expected to yield a “successful transition” out of post-war power-sharing into a third and ultimate model that is yet to be attained.