The Falling Regime of Assad: A Turning Point for Syria

The events unfolding in Syria over the past week have been nothing short of historic. Starting Monday and escalating through Saturday, the news from my homeland left me overwhelmed, evoking emotions I hadn’t felt since the revolution began in 2011. In some ways, it reminded me of the fall of the Berlin Wall—though Syria’s case is far from ideal. Yet, this moment offers a glimmer of hope: a chance to rebuild our nation and envision a democratic government after 61 years of one-party rule and 54 years of dictatorship under the Assad family.

Over the past few days, I’ve received countless messages and calls from friends, acquaintances, and colleagues seeking my perspective and asking about my family. I’d like to share my thoughts, shaped by my professional background and personal experiences.

My Background

Born and raised in Syria, I led major projects for national and international enterprises until 2012. Later, I established my consultancy firm and launched the "Yalla Let’s Bike" initiative to promote cycling among women and youth, which gained international recognition, including coverage by the BBC and acknowledgment by the United Nations.

During my career, I had direct encounters with Assad’s regime. While leading the Virgin Megastore project in Syria, I saw how every major business decision had to be approved by the president’s office. The regime ensured its close circle profited from every venture. Later, the regime attempted to exploit my "Yalla Let’s Bike" initiative to polish its image in the West, presenting itself as a progressive government supporting women’s rights. Lastly, I was indirectly approached by the regime to run for parliament, an effort to use my liberal views and mixed-sectarian background to enhance its image. Luckily, I was able to leave Syria before the regime was able to punish me, for not being a supporter.

Coming from a mixed-sectarian family, I’ve always viewed Syria’s complexities from a balanced perspective. My upbringing gave me access to diverse viewpoints, enabling me to approach these developments with a neutral and analytical mindset.

2016–2024: The Regime’s Decline

After crushing the liberal movements and isolating Islamist opposition to Idlib, the Assad regime became complacent. Its focus shifted to enriching itself, neglecting even the most basic needs of its citizens. This left many Syrians hopeless, yearning to leave the country.

To illustrate the dire situation: a family member of mine earns just €20 a month from a full-time job—a salary that covers only a few days’ expenses. Electricity is available for just 2–4 hours a day. Assad, once reliant on promises to maintain loyalty among soldiers and militias, stopped even that by 2020. His regime’s neglect and false assurances alienated even his staunchest supporters.

The Turning Point

This week, Syrian rebels launched an offensive against the regime, capturing Aleppo—Syria’s second-largest city—in just two days. This was unprecedented, as Aleppo had been a regime stronghold for over a decade. The rebels also took control of Hama and two Shiite-majority villages notorious for their involvement in massacres during the war.

What stood out was the rebels’ discipline and restraint. Despite years of suffering and grievances, they refrained from revenge and demonstrated remarkable organization. Many regime soldiers surrendered or fled, disillusioned by years of broken promises.

Assad now finds himself increasingly isolated. Hezbollah is weakened, Russia is preoccupied with the war in Ukraine, and Iran faces its own domestic challenges. The regime’s support system is crumbling.

Hope and Concerns

While I am hopeful about the regime’s downfall, I have concerns about what comes next. The rebels’ Islamist background raises questions about governance, especially concerning minorities and secularism.

The Assad regime systematically crushed liberal movements over decades, leaving Islamists as the only organized opposition with a vision. Liberal activists were jailed, exiled, or silenced. During the revolution, Islamists found ways to mobilize through mosques and religious networks, while liberals struggled to gain traction under oppression.

Encouragingly, recent reports suggest the rebels have learned from history. They’ve shown tolerance, refrained from imposing dress codes on women, and avoided revenge actions. The actions I’ve seen so far give me cautious optimism.

A Long Road Ahead

Syria’s transition will not be easy. The journey from dictatorship to democracy rarely is. Even the French Revolution endured brutal phases and multiple republics before achieving stability.

Yet, Syrians have shown remarkable resilience. While there may be setbacks, I believe the people who ousted Assad can also resist future tyranny. Academics, business leaders, and exiled Syrians are already expressing interest in returning or reconnecting with the country. This moment marks the start of a long journey—one filled with challenges but also opportunities to rebuild a nation rooted in inclusion, prosperity, and secularism.

For the first time in decades, there is a genuine possibility of a new beginning for Syria. Together, we can create a brighter future.

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