Syria | The Syrian Center for Policy Research
The Syrian Center for Policy Research (SCPR) held an online workshop and an open dialogue with its research team from various Syrian governorates on Monday, February 3, 2025. This event was part of the first phase of the “The participatory research in MENA contexts” project, which aims to develop transformative research capacities and strategies by exploring the potential of participatory research approaches in contexts of protracted conflicts.
The workshop, conducted in collaboration with the Department of Development Studies at the University of Vienna, addressed the concept of political participation and citizenship. Participants discussed the importance of engaging local communities in shaping public policies and their political rights. The dialogue also examined the challenges facing political participation in Syria, such as the absence of a stable political environment, the declining role of political parties, and weak popular representation in decision-making processes.
In this context, the 29 participants analyzed how the fall of the authoritarian regime marked a significant shift in political transition and conflict resolution, particularly given the devastating legacy of years of war on institutional structures, social relations, and economic, environmental, and cultural resources.
Additionally, the researchers examined the impact of the conflict on mechanisms of political participation and discussed its future prospects after the conflict ends, proposing measures to enhance political freedoms and ensure justice.
In the final part of the dialogue, participants focused on key priorities and interventions needed to strengthen active citizenship and political participation. These included reforming laws governing political activities, providing a safe environment for political dialogue, and empowering civil society.
This dialogue aligns with the SCPR’s ongoing efforts and priorities to promote participation through participatory research.
