Syria: “Democracy instead of theocracy!” – First protests in Damascus for a civilian state | EUROtoday

For the primary time for the reason that fall of long-time ruler Bashar al-Assad and jihadist rebels got here to energy, a protest was held within the Syrian capital Damascus. Hundreds of supporters of secular events and teams demanded broad participation within the nation’s future authorities in Umajjad Square on Thursday to assist construct a contemporary Syria with out sectarian and non secular divisions. Others referred to as for a nationwide dialogue aimed toward an inclusive future for all Syrians.

“We are here today to demand a civil state that respects all people, regardless of their denomination or religious beliefs,” stated trainer Taslim Hamscho, who took half within the demonstration. Some held banners in Arabic that learn “Democracy not theocracy.”

So far the transition in Syria has been surprisingly clean, however lower than two weeks have handed since Assad’s fall. The nation is residence to various non secular communities. And there may be rising concern amongst minorities, together with Christians, about whether or not their rights and security will probably be assured below the principle insurgent group Haiat Tahrir al-Sham, a one-time al-Qaeda affiliate. “Our ultimate goal is for Syria to be a state for everyone,” stated movie director Rami Nidal.

After the autumn of ruler Bashar al-Assad, political management in Syria lies with the Islamist group Haiat Tahrir al-Sham. Statements concerning the function of ladies had induced criticism. The posters learn, amongst different issues: “No free society without free women.” Statements by HTS spokesman Obaida Arnaut on Lebanese tv concerning the function of ladies had induced criticism within the run-up to the demonstration. Arnaut stated, amongst different issues, that ladies are unsuitable for the place of protection minister or for roles within the judiciary attributable to their “biological nature”.

Christians, Alawites and different minorities concern doable repression after Assad’s fall. HTS chief Ahmad al-Sharaa, also referred to as Abu Mohammed al-Julani, not too long ago appeared reasonable and promised a Syria for everybody.