Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Articles by Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj

LUGARIT, 2024

This paper examines Tunisia’s post-2011 decentralization efforts, exploring the complex political... more This paper examines Tunisia’s post-2011 decentralization efforts, exploring the complex political dynamics that ultimately led to recentralization under President Kais Saied. While decentralization aimed to enhance local governance and democratic participation, competing political agendas and party conflicts sidelined local reforms, fueling public disillusionment and a shift toward centralization. Saied’s policies reframed decentralization as a divisive tool, leveraging donor priorities for stability to justify recentralizing power. This study reveals how normative legal frameworks, while necessary, fall short without grassroots support and political legitimacy, offering critical insights into the role of political interests in shaping Tunisia’s governance landscape.

LUGARIT, 2024

This article examines the ongoing democracy crisis in the Arab world, focusing on the unresolved ... more This article examines the ongoing democracy crisis in the Arab world, focusing on the unresolved tension between governance and collective identity. Drawing comparisons with Europe's historical democratic evolution, it highlights how Arab states, shaped by post-colonial agreements, struggle with fragile national identities. The article explores how current democratic efforts emphasize tolerance over true equality and questions whether the region will experience a long-term transition to a fully realized democratic system, similar to Europe’s gradual shift over centuries.

LUGARIT, 2024

This article examines the strategic rapprochement between Damascus and Ankara, exploring its pote... more This article examines the strategic rapprochement between Damascus and Ankara, exploring its potential impact on Syria's future. It analyzes key areas of cooperation and conflict, including shared security concerns, economic opportunities, refugee repatriation, and the challenges posed by armed factions in northern Syria. The article also considers the implications for the Syrian opposition and the broader regional stability, offering insights into how this evolving relationship might influence the trajectory of the Syrian conflict and the prospects for a unified Syria.

LUGARIT, 2024

This article explores the complex challenges and opportunities involved in revitalizing historic ... more This article explores the complex challenges and opportunities involved in revitalizing historic marketplaces, or souks, in the Arab region. Historically, these souks were central to urban economies, social networks, and cultural life. However, modern economic shifts have led to their decline, raising important questions about how to preserve their cultural heritage while ensuring their economic viability. The article examines the ethical considerations of using public funds for souk restoration, outlines strategic justifications for such investments, and proposes innovative approaches to support sustainable revitalization. By balancing cultural preservation with economic development, the article offers a framework for revitalizing these historic marketplaces in a way that honors their past while fostering their future.

LUGARIT, 2024

This paper explores the potential of leveraging living heritage as a tool for peacebuilding in co... more This paper explores the potential of leveraging living heritage as a tool for peacebuilding in conflict zones, using Syria as a case study. Traditional top-down heritage conservation methods, often rooted in Eurocentric standards, have alienated local communities and exacerbated social divisions. The paper argues for a shift towards inclusive, community-driven approaches that prioritize living traditions and socio-economic development, thereby fostering social cohesion and resilience. Key recommendations include adopting a living heritage approach, promoting inclusive narratives, enhancing genuine community participation, and integrating socio-economic strategies. By embracing these strategies, heritage conservation can play a crucial role in sustainable peacebuilding and recovery in conflict-affected regions.

LUGARIT, 2024

This article examines the complex interplay between identity and citizenship within the ongoing d... more This article examines the complex interplay between identity and citizenship within the ongoing discussions of the Syrian Constitutional Committee. It explores the divergent perspectives that have stalled the constitutional process—one that prioritizes identity as the foundation of state legitimacy and another that emphasizes equal citizenship as the basis of nationhood. Through a detailed analysis of key issues such as religious belief and language, the article argues for the necessity of integrating identity into the framework of citizenship to ensure a cohesive and inclusive Syrian state. Drawing on international examples, it highlights how other nations have successfully balanced these principles, offering insights for Syria's path forward. The article ultimately calls for a constitutional approach that embraces both identity and citizenship as essential components of national unity and stability.

LUGARIT, 2024

This paper provides a framework for analyzing the political and economic drivers that prompt high... more This paper provides a framework for analyzing the political and economic drivers that prompt highly centralized governance systems to pursue decentralization. Moving beyond the simplistic dichotomy of democratization versus authoritarianism, the study explores five key drivers—power balances, legitimacy, economic challenges, peripheral uprisings, and external influences—using global case studies. It emphasizes the complexity and context-dependence of decentralization processes, highlighting that successful outcomes require more than just normative frameworks. Instead, effective decentralization demands continuous adaptation, stakeholder engagement, and alignment of central and local governance roles over extended periods of time.

LUGARIT, 2024

This article critically examines the complexities surrounding the concept of reconciliation in Sy... more This article critically examines the complexities surrounding the concept of reconciliation in Syria, which has often been misunderstood as surrender or betrayal. The authors argue that genuine reconciliation requires an inclusive, Syrian-led dialogue addressing critical issues such as justice, the fate of detainees, displaced populations, and the integration of armed groups. The article underscores the necessity of breaking political taboos and engaging in sustained, pragmatic conversations to build a unified Syrian society, as outlined in UN Resolution 2254, while acknowledging the significant challenges that remain.

LUGARIT, 2024

This article explores the shift towards early recovery as a new paradigm in addressing the ongoin... more This article explores the shift towards early recovery as a new paradigm in addressing the ongoing crisis in Syria, as highlighted by recent discussions at the Brussels Conference. It examines the necessity of transitioning from a humanitarian aid focus to a strategy that leverages local resources and revitalizes the economy, while also addressing the political complexities that hinder long-term stability. The article argues for a change in mindset among Western donors and Syrian political actors, emphasizing the importance of transparency, state regulation, and inclusive solutions that prioritize the needs of the Syrian people. Practical recommendations are provided for fostering local agency, maintaining political dialogue, and incentivizing incremental progress towards recovery and peacebuilding.

LUGARIT, 2024

This article examines the critical role of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) processes in the early... more This article examines the critical role of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) processes in the early recovery of war-torn countries, with a particular focus on optimizing these practices for greater aid effectiveness. The study highlights the limitations of traditional evaluation standards, such as the OECD-DAC criteria, when applied to emergency-mode projects, and underscores the need for more context-sensitive approaches. It also discusses the challenges of resource allocation, transparency, and the potential conflicts of interest in Third-Party Monitoring and Evaluation (TPME) selection. The article advocates for a transformation of M&E into a learning process that not only measures project outcomes but also engages and empowers local communities, fostering sustainable recovery. By rethinking traditional M&E approaches and integrating community-driven insights, the article offers actionable recommendations for improving the effectiveness and sustainability of aid interventions in conflict-affected regions.

LUGARIT, 2024

This article explores the political economy of city-regions and its implications for post-conflic... more This article explores the political economy of city-regions and its implications for post-conflict recovery. It examines how cities, as centers of economic extraction and wealth accumulation, shape urban-rural dynamics, contributing to both civil unrest and peacebuilding. Through case studies from Sierra Leone, Liberia, India, Colombia, and Syria, the article highlights the role of urban centrality in conflict and recovery. Key recommendations include decentralizing governance, fostering urban-rural connectivity, and reconfiguring value chains to support inclusive and sustainable development. By addressing these local dynamics, the article argues for a nuanced approach to post-conflict recovery that goes beyond traditional top-down political solutions.

LUGARIT, 2024

The article explores the complex dynamics of decentralization in the MENA region, examining its p... more The article explores the complex dynamics of decentralization in the MENA region, examining its potential to address systemic issues of marginalization and uneven development highlighted by the Arab Spring. Centralized governance has historically brought stability and development but also unchecked power and resource disparities. Decentralization emerges as a strategic pathway to enhance local governance, foster economic growth, and heal divided societies. The article reviews reforms in countries like Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, while highlighting ongoing challenges in Iraq, Lebanon, and war-torn nations like Syria, Yemen, and Libya. It underscores the need for carefully tailored decentralization processes to ensure sustainable development, stability, and a more inclusive governance model, ultimately contributing to regional peace and reconciliation.

LUGARIT, 2024

This article delves into the complex humanitarian externalities associated with the implementatio... more This article delves into the complex humanitarian externalities associated with the implementation of international sanctions, particularly through the lens of overcompliance. It discusses how, despite targeted intentions, sanctions can inadvertently affect non-sanctioned entities, primarily within the humanitarian and economic sectors. The paper draws from a diverse array of expert discussions and case studies, focusing on Syria to illustrate the ripple effects of such policies on local economies and humanitarian efforts. It critiques the broad impacts of overcompliance and advocates for clearer regulatory guidance, improved dialogue among stakeholders, and a more nuanced approach to sanction regimes to mitigate adverse consequences and better align political objectives with humanitarian concerns.

LUGARIT, 2024

This article explores the intersection of gender dynamics and conflict through the lens of the Wo... more This article explores the intersection of gender dynamics and conflict through the lens of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda. It argues that while the WPS Agenda has gained global traction, it often overlooks how gender shapes conflict territories. Focusing on Syria, the article presents a detailed analysis of territorial control, gender mapping, and the implications for sustainable peace. By comparing pre-conflict maps, current control maps, and gendered indicators, it reveals the fragmentation of social ecosystems and challenges traditional peace process strategies. The article advocates for integrating gender perspectives into political mapping to achieve lasting peace.

LUGARIT, 2024

This article explores the challenges and opportunities in redesigning financial instruments for e... more This article explores the challenges and opportunities in redesigning financial instruments for early recovery donor funding in conflict zones. It critiques the limitations of traditional humanitarian aid, emphasizing the need for a triple nexus approach that integrates humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding efforts. The article outlines key strategies for fostering sustainable recovery, such as empowering local communities, creating economic multipliers, and avoiding harmful dependencies. It also provides practical recommendations for designing aid that incentivizes peace and contributes to long-term stability, rather than perpetuating conflict or fragmentation.

LUGARIT, 2024

This article explores the evolving relationship between heritage preservation and modern urban de... more This article explores the evolving relationship between heritage preservation and modern urban development, challenging the traditional dichotomy between heritage and modernity. It argues that heritage, often viewed as a static relic of the past, should be integrated into the dynamic, everyday lives of communities to remain relevant and sustainable. The discourse around heritage preservation, currently dominated by elitist and populist perspectives, needs to shift towards a more inclusive and flexible approach that aligns with societal needs and economic realities. The article advocates for preservation strategies that stimulate the organic, ongoing interaction between communities and their heritage, ensuring that heritage sites are not just conserved but actively contribute to the vitality and sustainability of urban environments. This requires moving away from rigid legal frameworks and scientific formalities towards creating economic incentives and adaptive practices that allow heritage to thrive as a living process within the fabric of modern cities.

Political Economy and Governance in Syria, 2019

This article summarizes a presentation by Mr. Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj at the London School of Econo... more This article summarizes a presentation by Mr. Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj at the London School of Economics. It addresses the complexities of housing, land, and property (HLP) issues in Syria, particularly in the wake of the country's ongoing conflict. Mr. Hallaj explores the historical backdrop of Syria's land management, the impact of the conflict on property rights, and the introduction of Law 10, which has sparked significant international concern. The article discusses how decades of overlapping laws and governance challenges have exacerbated property disputes, which are now compounded by the conflict’s destruction and displacement. Mr. Hallaj argues that the current legal frameworks, including Law 10, are insufficient to address the deep-rooted issues in land and housing management. He emphasizes the need for comprehensive policy reviews and suggests that community participation, economic incentives, and innovative governance solutions are essential for successful post-conflict recovery and reconstruction in Syria.

Political Economy and Governance in Syria, 2019

This article provides an analysis of the role and function of local and national elections within... more This article provides an analysis of the role and function of local and national elections within the Syrian political landscape, particularly during and after the conflict. Mr. Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj argues that these elections serve more as a mechanism to maintain and expand the regime's patronage networks rather than as a means of democratic representation. The article discusses how elections are strategically used to balance sectarian and communitarian concerns, ensuring the empowerment of individuals loyal to the regime. The analysis also highlights the significant discrepancies in local governance, the uneven distribution of resources, and the manipulation of administrative boundaries to maintain regime control. Furthermore, it contrasts the electoral dynamics in regime-held, opposition-controlled, and Kurdish-administered areas, examining the varying degrees of centralization and patronage in each context. The article underscores the challenges that any future democratic process in Syria would face, given the deeply entrenched patronage networks and the regime's control over electoral mechanisms.

This paper explores the impact of governance and urban planning on the development and subsequent... more This paper explores the impact of governance and urban planning on the development and subsequent conflict in Aleppo. It critically examines the role of the state and local institutions in shaping urban growth, particularly in the context of the 20th century, where state-building efforts intertwined with the formalization of planning practices. The paper discusses the historical evolution of urban governance from the Ottoman period through the French mandate to post-colonial Syria, highlighting the tensions between centralized state power and local civil society. Drawing on the case of Aleppo, the paper reveals how urban planning, initially a tool for modernization, ultimately became a mechanism that contributed to social inequalities, corruption, and radicalism, factors that played a significant role in the city's embroilment in civil war. The analysis emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift in urban planning towards more flexible, inclusive approaches that recognize the importance of integrating rural hinterlands and engaging citizens in the governance process. The lessons drawn are intended to inform the development of urban planning practices in post-conflict contexts, with a focus on rebuilding social capital and fostering resilient urban environments.

Indian Architect and Builder Magazine, 2009

This article explores the intricate challenges of urban heritage preservation in Zabid, a histori... more This article explores the intricate challenges of urban heritage preservation in Zabid, a historic city in Yemen. The city's rich architectural legacy has faced significant threats due to economic decline, changing trade patterns, and inadequate preservation strategies. The paper highlights the conflict between the preservation of heritage and the livelihoods of the local community, exacerbated by poorly implemented international interventions. Through the lens of the Project for the Development of Historic Cities of Yemen (PDHCY), the author discusses a novel approach that empowers local residents to take charge of heritage conservation while simultaneously revitalizing the city's economic base. By subsidizing demand for traditional building methods and fostering community-led restoration efforts, the project aims to create sustainable, win-win solutions that align the interests of heritage preservation with those of the local population. The article underscores the importance of community involvement and the need for balanced strategies that consider both cultural preservation and economic development in safeguarding urban heritage.

LUGARIT, 2024

Political Economy and Governance in Syria, 2019

Indian Architect and Builder Magazine, 2009

European Union, 2022

This report is the result of a project commissioned by the European Union and developed by Logos ... more This report is the result of a project commissioned by the European Union and developed by Logos Civicus in collaboration with LUGARIT. The report presents a strategic roadmap for the European Union's engagement with Syrian civil society (SCS). It synthesizes findings from extensive secondary literature and primary data, including key informant interviews and focus group discussions with local and international experts. The report outlines a holistic strategy to navigate the complex ecosystem of Syrian civic actors, focusing on enhancing their capacity to operate in a conflict-affected environment. It also proposes a shift in EU approaches, emphasizing bottom-up empowerment, inclusive partnerships, and long-term development beyond immediate humanitarian needs. Key recommendations include fostering cross-geographical networks, supporting deliberative democracy, and promoting sustainable community resilience. The report’s analysis is framed by four priority areas: representation of civil society, deliberative democracy, public well-being, and self-constitution. These priorities are designed to guide future EU engagements, ensuring that Syrian civil society can play a pivotal role in the country's recovery and development, particularly in the aftermath of recent seismic events.

London School of Economics, 2022

A research report that delves into the intricate history and rationale behind the administrative ... more A research report that delves into the intricate history and rationale behind the administrative divisions in Syria, particularly after its independence from French mandate. The study acknowledges the scarcity of research on this topic and aims to fill this gap by exploring the political, economic, and social drivers behind the establishment and renaming of governorates, while deliberately avoiding the complexities of city and town formations.

The research primarily focuses on the significant administrative transformations in Syrian governorates since the formation of the Syrian entity, with a particular emphasis on the period following independence. It raises critical questions about the nature of these transformations: Were they developmental, aiming to improve services and support countrywide development, or were they influenced by the interests of specific social, political, or economic groups?

To address these questions, the report examines relevant laws and decisions, parliamentary deliberations, and interviews with key figures involved in significant events in regions like Raqqa, Idlib, Tartous, and Quneitra. It finds that while some changes in administrative divisions had a service-oriented nature, influenced by demographic factors like population density and area size, political motives were also evident.

For instance, the creation of Quneitra was aimed at unifying civilian administration to align with military command against Israel. The formation of Tartous, predominantly Alawite following the loss of Alexandretta, suggests political and social motives alongside economic and service considerations. The separation of Raqqa and Idlib from Deir ez-Zor and Aleppo in 1957, despite opposition from Aleppo’s representatives, indicates political underpinnings, possibly linked to Nasserite influences in these governorates.

The renaming of governorates in the 1950s, such as Houran, Al-Furat, Jabal Al-Druze, and Al-Jazira, seems politically motivated to reduce regional extensions beyond national borders. This trend underscores the Syrian state’s centralization strategy, favoring a strong central government over empowering local administrations. The tendency to create new governorates linking remote areas to the central government, rather than decentralizing power, reflects this centralization ethos.

Overall, the report reveals a nuanced interplay of service, demographic, and political factors in the shaping of Syria’s administrative landscape, highlighting the complexity of governance and identity in the region.

Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP), 2021

The Syria Transition Challenges Project – at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP) - aims ... more The Syria Transition Challenges Project – at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP) - aims to build common ground between the European, Russian, Turkish and US views on the issues of Reform, Refugees Return, and Reconstruction in Syria. The GCSP commissioned Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj of LUGARIT to develop this research project report.

This research explores the intricate dynamics of Syria's political economy, emphasizing the resilience of its structures amidst prolonged conflict. The study argues that the entrenched patterns of patron-client relationships and political economy in Syria are resistant to externally imposed political transitions. Despite international sanctions intended to weaken the regime, these measures have inadvertently reinforced the power of the ruling elites, exacerbating societal vulnerabilities, particularly among the middle class. The periodic replacement of elite figures has facilitated the creation of new mechanisms for financial extraction, further entrenching the existing political order.

The report also examines the consequences of state failure, positing that while the collapse of the state might lead to violent and transactional political marketplaces, it does not necessarily equate to regime collapse. Such outcomes, however, could precipitate a broader social collapse, an undesirable scenario for all stakeholders involved. The study advocates for the prevention of state collapse through addressing the intractable nature of the Syrian conflict, with a focus on local funding and empowerment to decentralize economic control.

Moreover, the research underscores the importance of reorienting aid mechanisms towards formalizing local governance structures, reducing NGO dependency on external resources, and encouraging fiscal decentralization. It highlights the limitations of top-down peace-building strategies, suggesting that sustainable peace and reform in Syria require substantial changes in both the political economy and the political process.

Friedrich Ebert Stiftung , 2019

The Friedrich Ebert Foundation has engaged MIDMAR NGO to conduct a comprehensive study on health ... more The Friedrich Ebert Foundation has engaged MIDMAR NGO to conduct a comprehensive study on health governance in Syria's opposition-controlled areas. The research examines the governance structures that emerged in opposition-held areas (OHAs) of Syria's health sector during the conflict that began in 2011. As the Syrian government withdrew from extensive regions, local actors, including civil society organizations and local administration councils, stepped in to fill the governance vacuum. The study highlights the divergent approaches taken—top-down efforts led by the Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC) and bottom-up initiatives driven by local actors—and assesses their effectiveness in state-building and service provision. The findings reveal that bottom-up governance models, focused on technical service provision and accountability, proved more resilient and effective than top-down models, which were often disconnected from local realities and lacked community legitimacy. However, the success of these governance efforts was limited by the absence of a unified governance approach across sectors and regions, as well as by fragmented donor funding. The research underscores the importance of coordinated, sector-wide governance strategies and the integration of private sector providers in efforts to build sustainable, resilient institutions in conflict-affected areas.

Die Altstadt von Aleppo - Gestern und Heute, 2024

This chapter explores the economic challenges and strategic approaches for the rehabilitation of ... more This chapter explores the economic challenges and strategic approaches for the rehabilitation of the Old City of Aleppo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has faced significant damage due to recent conflicts and natural disasters. It delves into the historical context of Aleppo as a vital trade hub, which has shaped its rich architectural and cultural heritage over centuries. The chapter critically analyzes the impact of modern urban planning, the Syrian conflict, and subsequent efforts to preserve and restore the Old City. Through a detailed examination of past and current economic models, it highlights the need for sustainable, community-driven investments that balance heritage preservation with economic viability. The chapter also discusses the risks of socio-economic displacement, the importance of stakeholder involvement, and the challenges of securing sufficient resources for long-term revitalization. It concludes by proposing a new strategy that integrates social, economic, and cultural considerations to ensure the Old City's future as a living, thriving urban space.

Local Governments and Public Goods: Assessing Decentralization in the Arab World, 2015

This book chapter provides an in-depth analysis of Yemen's unique transition from traditional gov... more This book chapter provides an in-depth analysis of Yemen's unique transition from traditional governance to a modern state, bypassing the formation of a strong centralized pre-modern state. It examines the interplay between tribal loyalties, regional influences, and the impact of colonization on Yemen’s governance. The chapter focuses on the decentralization process initiated after Yemen’s unification in 1990, shaped by the North’s tribal dynamics and the South’s colonial history. It highlights the role of powerful tribal federations and the political strategies of President Ali Abdullah Saleh in shaping a decentralized governance model. Additionally, the chapter discusses the evolution of Yemen’s legal and administrative framework for decentralization, the challenges in implementing effective local governance, and the varying success in decentralizing services across different sectors. This nuanced exploration offers valuable insights into Yemen's complex and fragmented path to decentralization.

Conservation and Cultural Management in Monuments, Landscape and World Heritage Sites, 2015

This book chapter explores the economic impact of public subsidies in urban heritage conservation... more This book chapter explores the economic impact of public subsidies in urban heritage conservation, analyzing the effectiveness of supply-driven versus demand-driven financial interventions. It critiques the dominant focus on physical preservation, arguing for a more sustainable approach that considers heritage as both a cultural and economic asset. The chapter suggests principles for balancing state policies with local interests, encouraging local investment, and innovative uses of heritage sites. It advocates for a public debate on heritage conservation that goes beyond cultural symbolism to achieve more sustainable outcomes.

National Dialogue and Internal Mediation Processes: Perspectives on Theory and Practice, 2014

This paper is a chapter in the report of the first National Dialogue Conference held in Helsinki ... more This paper is a chapter in the report of the first National Dialogue Conference held in Helsinki in April 2014. The Conference is organised by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland and brings together international stakeholders for in-depth discussion on national dialogue processes in different countries and contexts. This paper explores the complexities of the Syrian conflict and assesses potential entry points for peacebuilding and national dialogue. It argues that successful peace efforts in Syria must be grounded in the agency of Syrian stakeholders rather than external interventions. The paper provides a historical overview of Syria's socio-political landscape, traces the timeline of the conflict, and analyzes the roles of key stakeholders. It also identifies various entry points for initiating a peace process, emphasizing the importance of local dynamics and bottom-up approaches in fostering sustainable peace.

LUGARIT, 2024

This policy paper was developed by LUGARIT for Omran Centre for Strategic Studies. It explores t... more This policy paper was developed by LUGARIT for Omran Centre for Strategic Studies. It explores the complex relationship between administrative divisions and identity formation in Syria. The paper examines how the demarcation of subnational boundaries, often manipulated for political purposes, has shaped local and national identities, contributing to social fragmentation and conflict. Through extensive interviews and historical analysis, the paper reveals that strong local identities, rather than opposing national unity, can complement it when managed inclusively. The study provides critical insights into the need for a balanced approach to administrative governance, fostering both local autonomy and national cohesion in post-conflict Syria.

New England Journal of Public Policy, 2017

In November 2015, the United States and the Russian Federation convened the main international st... more In November 2015, the United States and the Russian Federation convened the main international stakeholders engaged in the Syrian conflict to broker the Vienna Accords. The unfolding political process culminated in the issuing of UN Security Council Resolution 2254. Since then the situation has evolved rapidly, ushering in a new outlook for the resolution of the six-year-old civil war. The conflicting parties in Syria have not yet fathomed the momentum of this deal. Some progress has been made as part of successive attempts to establish a “cessation of hostilities,” but there have not yet been any major breakthroughs because the negotiating parties, supported by regional allies, are resisting the process every step of the way. The war has created new geographic realities: governance structures, political economies, and cultural paradigms. These geographies will not be easily bypassed. Dealing with the fragmented situation will hinder the prospects of a top-down solution, particularly because none of the negotiating parties has full control over its constituency. This article focuses on understanding this new geography. Arguing that the emergence of radicalized actors on the scene is not an accidental feature of the conflict dynamics, it shows how, instead, the territorial patterns of control by the different actors have used and exploited the territory to advance their positioning. Subsequently the article argues that these patterns, intended or not, have fostered the radicalization of the armed actors on all sides, imposing in the meantime asymmetrical patterns of territoriality that will seriously undermine the top-down approach of the Geneva process.

NOREF - Norwegian Peacebuilding Resource Centre , 2015

The conflict in Syria is forging new forms of territorial control, and a political economy that i... more The conflict in Syria is forging new forms of territorial control, and a political economy that is not unlike the patronage system that was previously fostered by the ruling Ba’ath party. As a result of the extended war efforts and the need for revenues to fund them, the national economy is now deeply affected by illicit activities such as trade in antiquities, oil and drugs, as well as smuggling, kidnapping, looting and extrajudicial land expropriations.

LUGARIT, 2025

This study examines the fragmented governance models in Syria during the period leading up to the... more This study examines the fragmented governance models in Syria during the period leading up to the collapse of the Assad regime on December 8, 2024. Through a comprehensive analysis of seven distinct governance models, the paper explores regional disparities, governance legitimacy, and public trust in varying political and economic contexts. It highlights key challenges, including corruption, inefficient service delivery, and a lack of democratic representation, while emphasizing the critical need for inclusive governance models to bridge divides and foster national reconciliation in post-collapse Syria.