Syrians filled the streets to commemorate the first anniversary of the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, celebrating renewed hopes after nearly 14 years of war. Fireworks, flags, and military parades marked the end of the decades-long authoritarian rule, while President Ahmed al-Sharaa praised the courage of those who fought to overthrow the regime. In public speeches and religious ceremonies, he promised to rebuild a strong, just Syria capable of protecting the oppressed and honoring its historical legacy.
Over the past year, the new government has begun restoring essential services and addressing symbolic wounds left by the dictatorship. Salaries for public workers were raised, major cities began receiving electricity without interruption for the first time in 15 years, and notorious prisons such as Sednaya and Mezzeh were permanently closed. However, despite the celebratory atmosphere, the destruction(especially in Aleppo) remains vast, requiring billions of dollars and foreign investment to reconstruct entire neighborhoods and economic infrastructure.
Large numbers of refugees are now considering returning home, with more than 782,000 Syrians having returned in the past year. Yet, economic obstacles persist, including unaffordable housing, unemployment, and high living costs, limiting meaningful reintegration for returnees. Young Syrians in particular feel torn between rebuilding their country and seeking stability abroad, expressing that although victory has been achieved, the social and economic losses of war remain profound.
International actors, including the United Nations, are backing Syria’s post-conflict transition; however, analysts warn that the government must now focus on domestic reconstruction and inclusive political participation. With sanctions lifted, economic recovery will require time and cautious investment. The new leadership must move away from decades of centralised power and convince all citizens that they have a place and a voice in shaping the Syria that emerges from war.
Reference:
Staff, A. J. (2025b, December 8). With flags and fireworks, Syrians celebrate one year since fall of al-Assad. Al Jazeera. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/12/8/with-flags-and-fireworks-syrians-celebrate-one-year-since-fall-of-al-assad