A rare demonstration in Damascus’ Umayyad Square on Thursday called for the formation of a civil and secular state, marking a new chapter in Syria’s political landscape. Organized by the Civil Youth Gathering (CYG), the event promoted national unity and freedom of expression but also drew sharp criticism for the participation of vocal supporters of the ousted Bashar al-Assad regime. The rally, the first of its kind since the fall of Assad, proceeded without interference from the Syrian Transitional Government (STG) or the revolutionary forces overseeing security in the city.
Unity Amid Assadists
Many demonstrators chanted revolutionary slogans such as “One, one, one… The Syrian people are one,” reflecting aspirations for a pluralistic and inclusive Syria. However, there were others raising their voices with, “Religion belongs to God and the homeland belongs to everyone” and then there was the presence of prominent Assad supporters among the crowd which stirred controversy and concerns.
Some participants had previously used social media to promote violent crackdowns on dissent and gatherings, much like the one they were now at. During Assad’s rule, such displays were met with gunfire, attacks, and mass arrests. There were many recognizable supporters of the brutal deposed dictatorship including those who had made explicit calls for the use of barrel bombs and chemical weapons against civilians. Reem Raslan, who attended the rally, had once written on the social media platform Twitter (now X), “These [explosive] barrels are few … They [Syrian civilians] need tanks and I hope they are full of chemicals.”
Revolutionary Restraint
Despite the troubling history of some attendees, the STG and revolutionary police and security services, including members of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), neither dispersed the rally nor arrested participants. This restraint marked a significant departure from the Assad regime’s authoritarian approach to public dissent, during which peaceful demonstrations were often met with violent repression.
The decision to allow the rally to proceed exemplifies the STG’s commitment to upholding freedoms of speech and assembly, even for those who previously supported the regime’s oppressive tactics.
“This demonstration could not have happened under Assad,” said one activist observing the rally. “It’s a powerful message that even those with opposing views are now free to express themselves without fear of arrest or violence.”
A Civil State
Organizers of the CYG described the demonstration as a step toward building a democratic Syria. Participants emphasized their vision for a state free from military or religious rule, with a government that ensures transparency, equality, and representation for all Syrians.
“We seek a civil Syria that includes all segments of society,” said one protester. “Our goal is to stand against any mistakes made by future governments and to ensure the inclusion of all voices in decision-making.”
Another participant echoed these sentiments, calling for the drafting of a new constitution that reflects Syria’s diversity and guarantees the rights of all its citizens. “We are here today to say that we want a democratic state and a constitution that guarantees the rights of all components of the Syrian people without discrimination,” said a young woman at the rally.
Challenges Ahead
While the demonstration highlighted the potential for a more inclusive and democratic Syria, the participation of pro-Assad individuals raised questions about accountability and reconciliation. Some critics argued that those who supported atrocities under Assad’s rule should face justice before being welcomed into public discourse.
The STG has refrained from commenting on the presence of Assad loyalists at the rally. However, its tolerance of the demonstration signals a willingness to prioritize civil liberties over punitive measures, even as it navigates the complex task of rebuilding a fractured nation.
As Syria moves toward a future free from dictatorship, the challenge will be balancing freedom of expression with the need for justice and accountability. For now, Thursday’s rally in Umayyad Square stands as a testament to the possibility of peaceful coexistence in a new era for Syria.
