Syria's newly appointed transitional parliament convened for its inaugural session on July 12, 2026, in Damascus. President Ahmed al-Sharaa urged lawmakers to prioritize the "national interest" as they embark on drafting a new constitution after the overthrow of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad.
Key Objectives of the New Parliament
The parliament, known as the People’s Assembly, consists of 210 members. The assembly's primary goal is to establish a framework for democracy following decades of authoritarian rule and a devastating 14-year civil war that claimed over 500,000 lives.
During the first meeting, al-Sharaa emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of dialogue, the rule of law, and respect for institutions. He stated, “I urge you to make this assembly a model of responsibility and competence.”
Challenges Ahead for Syria
Despite the hopeful beginnings, Syria faces significant challenges, including a dire economic situation exacerbated by years of conflict and international isolation. Al-Sharaa highlighted that improving the economy and enhancing public services are key priorities for the parliament.
- Strengthening public services
- Attracting international investment
- Drafting a new constitution
Al-Sharaa, at just 43 years old, aims to lead Syria into a new era, focusing on rebuilding the nation and restoring its international standing. He remarked, “Syria is writing a glorious history that reflects its heroism.”
International Reactions to the Inauguration
The session was recognized as a significant milestone in Syria's political transition. Claudio Cordone, the deputy United Nations special envoy for Syria, noted that the international community will closely monitor the parliament's activities and is prepared to offer support.
Officials indicated that nationwide elections were not feasible due to logistical challenges stemming from years of conflict, including inaccurate population records. Two-thirds of the parliament members were elected by regional electoral colleges last year, while al-Sharaa appointed the remaining 70 members earlier this month.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Al Jazeera. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
