Ways forward for Syria

Abstract

Salamey and Rizk consider that almost every pan-Arab nationalist republic has experienced a similar course of rising political contestation and growing rifts between identity groups. Common to all is a half-century project of nationalization that attempted, in vain, to assimilate the different communal groups into a unified national identity. Outcomes have only exacerbated communal fragmentation and power contestation. Post-Arab Spring, violent events attest to the fallout of social pacts among national groups, majorities, and minorities alike. Consequently, the reconstruction of politics in favor of an accommodating and consensual arrangement is a prerequisite for an inclusive post-conflict multi-communitarian agreement. A post-conflict power sharing pact needs to protect political plurality and communal diversity while navigating pathways toward conflict resolution in Syria.