The Media Line: Preparatory Talks Across Syria Set Stage for Landmark National Dialogue

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Preparatory Talks Across Syria Set Stage for Landmark National Dialogue

Syrians across provinces, including Damascus, hold preparatory sessions for the National Dialogue Conference. Debates on governance, justice, and reforms signal a new era of free political discussion 

By Rizik Alabi/The Media Line 

[Damascus] Syrians across multiple provinces continue to hold preparatory sessions for the upcoming Syrian National Dialogue Conference, a landmark event expected to shape the country’s future. 

In recent weeks, the provinces of Hama, Homs, Tartus, and Idlib have witnessed extensive discussions, with hundreds of Syrians participating. The conference’s preparatory committee organized these sessions, bringing together representatives from diverse segments of society to exchange perspectives on post-Assad Syria following the regime’s collapse on December 8, 2024. 

Ongoing Discussions on Syria’s Future 

One such session, attended by The Media Line, took place in Damascus on February 17. Participants debated the structure and direction of the next phase, exploring key issues related to governance, justice, and reconciliation. 

Speaking to The Media Line, Hassan Al-Daghim, spokesperson for the National Dialogue Conference, confirmed that no official date has been set for the event. He emphasized that “this process cannot be constrained by a fixed timeline. Instead, we are allowing the national vision to mature through ongoing discussions and consultations. Once ideas and recommendations are fully developed, we will determine the appropriate timing and scale of the conference.” 

Al-Daghim also underscored the preparatory committee’s independence, stating that the Syrian presidency and official authorities have no influence over its work. He clarified that while the conference will issue recommendations rather than binding decisions, these recommendations will be considered when drafting the new constitutional framework. 

Key Topics on the Agenda 

Preparatory sessions in Damascus, Tartus, and Hama have addressed pressing issues, including: 

• The structure of the transitional phase and mechanisms for accountability 

• Justice and reconciliation efforts to foster social cohesion 

• Drafting a constitution that reflects the aspirations of the Syrian people 

• Reforming state institutions and ensuring public freedoms 

• The role of civil society organizations in shaping the transition 

Maher Alloush, head of the preparatory committee, stressed that the conference’s recommendations must lay the foundation for a new phase aligned with the hopes and expectations of all Syrians. 

Political activist Hisham Al-Masri, who attended one of the sessions, noted that discussions were highly engaging, particularly regarding the future system of governance. He explained that attendees debated whether Syria should adopt a parliamentary or presidential system and whether the next government should be technocratic or politically driven. 

For the first time in 54 years, Syrians in Damascus are openly discussing inclusive governance, social justice, and accountability for crimes. Participants also raised concerns about the rights of displaced individuals, questioning whether reconstruction efforts would focus solely on infrastructure—such as roads, schools, mosques, and utilities—or extend to rebuilding destroyed homes. 

The Government’s Stance and Future Prospects 

On February 12, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa issued a decree forming the National Dialogue Conference’s preparatory committee, followed by a press conference in Damascus announcing the initiative’s official launch. 

Observers anticipate that the conference will attract around 1,000 participants, with the Syrian government viewing it as a cornerstone for defining the country’s political identity. 

For the first time since 1971, Syrians inside the country are engaging in political activities free from government suppression. The streets of Damascus and other major cities are now adorned with banners and advertisements promoting the highly anticipated Syrian National Dialogue Conference—a sign of a new political era taking shape. 

PHOTO: A dialogue session with the organizing committee for the National Dialogue Conference is held at the Ministry of Information building in Damascus, Feb. 17, 2025, (The Media Line)