The Syrian Transitional Government (STG) is intensifying preparations for a landmark national conference set to take place January 4–5 in Damascus. The conference is expected to chart the course for Syria’s political, social, and economic future, involving 1,200 Syrian figures representing all sectors of society.
According to a senior official in the caretaker administration, participants will attend in their personal capacities rather than as representatives of specific entities. Delegates will include individuals from Syria’s provinces, with each region contributing between 70 and 100 representatives. Youth, women, military personnel, and religious figures from all sects are among those invited, as well as politicians, experts, and human rights activists from the Syrian diaspora.
“All entities have ended with the fall of the regime,” the source emphasized, signaling a fresh start for Syria’s political system.
Key Decisions Expected
The conference is anticipated to produce pivotal decisions for the nation’s future governance. Among these is the dissolution of the People’s Council, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), and all military formations, accompanied by a comprehensive restructuring of the Syrian Army.
Another expected outcome is the creation of a committee to draft a new constitution, designed to reflect Syria’s diverse society. Discussions may also include the formation of an advisory body to assist the interim president and support the executive authority. “This conference will determine the identity of the next stage,” the source said, adding that it marks a significant step in transitioning from a caretaker government to a fully functional administration.
The Transitional Government’s Role
The STG, established following the regime’s collapse, has been tasked with preserving the state’s structure, classifying personnel based on efficiency, and collecting comprehensive data on Syria’s resources.
“The first priority is to maintain the continuity of bureaucratic work and avoid the chaos experienced by other nations during their transitions,” a senior official explained. The caretaker government’s foundation is rooted in the experiences of the Syrian Salvation Government (SSG) of Idlib, chosen for its cohesive team familiar with Syria’s administrative challenges.
However, significant hurdles remain. Classifying employees from the former regime’s institutions has proven complex, with many state agencies burdened by redundant staff. Some branches employ as many as 5,000 workers while requiring only a few hundred. Although promises of a 400% salary increase for government employees have been made, the long-term fate of the workforce remains uncertain.
The third and most crucial task involves gathering data on Syria’s resources. This includes agriculture, industry, and mineral wealth, forming the foundation for comprehensive national development plans. “What we need is data and information to transform long-term visions into actionable plans,” said Ahmad al-Sharaa, a key figure in the post-Assad governing body.
Transitioning to a New Government
The STG’s tenure is expected to end following the January conference, paving the way for a new administration featuring technocratic leadership. This government will prioritize competence over political affiliation, aligning with a commitment to rebuilding and advancing the nation.
As Syria moves forward, the national conference and the anticipated government reshuffle mark a pivotal moment in the country’s history, offering hope for stability and progress after years of conflict.
