In a decisive step toward shaping Syria’s political future, President Ahmad al-Sharaa has issued a directive to form a committee of experts tasked with drafting a constitutional declaration. This move aims to address the constitutional vacuum left in the wake of the Assad regime’s fall and lay the groundwork for the country’s transitional phase.
A Diverse Panel of Experts
The newly formed committee consists of seven members, all of whom have extensive legal and political experience. The appointees include constitutional law scholars, international law experts, and human rights advocates, reflecting a broad spectrum of academic and professional expertise. Among them are Dr. Abdul Hamid al-Awak, a specialist in constitutional law; Dr. Yasser al-Huwaish, Dean of the Faculty of Law at Damascus University; and Dr. Ismail al-Khalfan, a university professor with expertise in civil law.
Other members include Dr. Rayan Kahilan, Head of the Public Law Department at Damascus University; Dr. Muhammad Ridaa Jalakhi, Dean of the Faculty of Political Science at Damascus University; Dr. Ahmad Qorbi, a researcher focusing on constitutional and legal affairs; and Dr. Bahiya Mardini, a journalist and political researcher specializing in constitutional governance and human rights.
Drafting a Framework for Transition
According to committee member Ismail al-Khalfan, the drafting process is already underway, with discussions between the committee and the Syrian presidency taking place. Speaking to the media, Khalfan emphasized the urgency of the task, stating, “We will start immediately and hope to formulate a constitutional declaration that meets the aspirations of the Syrians in this historic stage.”
The committee will review previous Syrian constitutions, particularly the well-regarded 1950 constitution, and examine constitutional models from countries that have undergone similar transitions, such as Tunisia and Iraq. The primary objective is to create a temporary yet functional constitutional framework that defines governance structures, safeguards citizens’ rights, and ensures legal continuity throughout the transitional period.
Key Provisions & Expected Timeline
Though no official draft has been released, reports suggest the constitutional declaration will include 48 articles. Unconfirmed details indicate that the document may define the Syrian presidency’s authority, including the power to appoint members of the People’s Assembly and act as Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Additionally, the declaration is expected to permit the formation of political parties based on national, rather than sectarian or ethnic, foundations.
While no firm deadline has been set, Khalfan noted that the committee aims to finalize the draft within days, or a week at most, before submitting it to President Sharaa for review. He also clarified that the constitutional declaration will be a temporary legal framework for the transitional phase, which is expected to last several years.
A Turning Point
The formation of this constitutional committee marks a significant moment in Syria’s post-Assad transition. As the nation seeks to rebuild its institutions, the constitutional declaration will be crucial in shaping the path forward. With expectations high, Syrians are watching closely, hoping this process will lead to stability and the foundation of a constitutionally governed state.
