The Context of Syria's Elections
On October 5, 2025, Syria embarked on a significant electoral journey with its first parliamentary elections since the ousting of long-time president Bashar al-Assad. These elections come at a time of profound uncertainty and skepticism about the political landscape of the nation.
Election Structure and Process
Despite the historical weight of this moment, the elections will not feature a direct vote for the People's Assembly. Instead, an intricate system of "electoral colleges" will be employed to choose representatives for two-thirds of the total 210 seats. The interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, will appoint the remaining members, raising concerns about the potential influence of executive power over legislative independence.
Security Concerns and Exclusions
The decision to exclude three provinces—Raqqa, Hassakeh, and Suweida—from the electoral process has sparked debates about the legitimacy of the elections. Authorities cite security issues resulting from ongoing conflicts and a precarious political climate, yet detractors argue this exclusion questions the inclusivity and representativeness of the polls.
“This setup makes the parliament susceptible to power balances not reflecting the voters' will and undermines its intended representative nature.”
These claims echo sentiments widely expressed by civil society groups who contend that the electoral system, combined with the influence of the interim government, renders the elections largely symbolic.
Sharaa's Justification
In a recent address at the UN General Assembly, Sharaa vowed to usher in a new era by addressing the human rights abuses committed during Assad's rule. He emphasized the challenges posed by a significant refugee population, complicating the electoral process given that many individuals lack proper documentation to vote or even return to Syria.
The Road Ahead
The elections will take place in 50 out of 60 districts, assigning approximately 120 electoral seats to candidates amidst a backdrop marked by skepticism. More than 1,500 candidates have declared their intent to run, all of whom must be part of the electoral colleges. Candidates affiliated with prior regimes, or who advocate for foreign intervention, have been explicitly barred.
Concerns About Representation
While policy provisions mandate that at least 20% of electoral college members be women, glaring gaps remain in quotas for female lawmakers or minority representatives. This insufficiency raises alarming questions about the true representativeness of the People's Assembly.
“Today we don't know anything. We did not see any lists or representatives. We didn't see anything.” — Hussam Nasreddin
Local voices, including residents from predominantly Druze areas in southern Damascus, have expressed dissatisfaction with the electoral process, deeming it little more than a façade to legitimize existing power structures.
A Closer Look at Exclusions
With the prevailing civil strife, the postponement of elections in Raqqa, Hassakeh, and Suweida underscores the divides within Syria. Tensions between various ethnic groups further complicate the landscape, as many Kurds and Druze feel marginalized and excluded from the nation's political narrative.
Conclusion: Symbolism or Substance?
The unfolding electoral process in Syria presents a delicate balance between hope for progress and the specter of disillusionment. While authorities present these elections as a step toward democratization and rebuilding, the reality may reveal a different story—one where power remains concentrated and the voices of the people are overshadowed. As the international community watches closely, the true impacts of these elections remain to be seen.
Source reference: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czrpx1vvr45o
