Syria

The Syrian conflict that began with nonviolent local protests in 2011 has since evolved into a geopolitical and humanitarian crisis. The devastating military campaign led by the Syrian regime, supported by the Russian and Iranian governments and their proxies has led to mass displacement, arrests, torture, and catastrophic loss of life. Along with other global powers, the United States faces important decisions regarding its future role in Syria. Centering Syrian voices is critical during this period of stabilization as the war-torn country grapples with security, economic, and political challenges amidst ongoing regional and international competition.

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Explore our Syria work

Syria Project

Our work on Syria sheds light on the ongoing struggle of Syrians to fulfill their desire for democratic self-governance as the United States and the international community grapple with the aftermath of a devastating civil war, millions of refugees across the Middle East and Europe, and ongoing security and political challenges spilling over Syria’s borders.

Group of world leaders sitting around table set up.

Syria Strategy Project

The Atlantic Council, Middle East Institute, and European Institute of Peace collaborate with subject matter experts and policymakers in the US, Europe, and the Middle East to develop a holistic strategy to sustainably forge a pathway to resolving Syria’s crisis.

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Learn more about the Middle East programs

Middle East Programs

Working with our allies and partners in Europe and the wider Middle East to protect US interests, build peace and security, and unlock the human potential of the region.

Content

In the News

Feb 25, 2025

Bakir joins CGTN to discuss how the new Syrian administration’s challenges

By Atlantic Council

Iran Israel

In the News

Feb 25, 2025

Kather and Klamberg in OpinioJuris: Justice for the Yazidis in the Ishaq Case by the Stockholm District Court – Part I

By Atlantic Council

Human Rights Middle East

In the News

Feb 25, 2025

Kather and Klamberg in OpinioJuris: Justice for the Yazidis in the Ishaq Case by the Stockholm District Court – Part II

By Atlantic Council

Human Rights Middle East

In the News

Feb 25, 2025

Kabawat mentioned in Deutsche Welle Arabic on the Syrian National Dialogue

By Atlantic Council

Arabic Elections

In the News

Feb 25, 2025

Kabawat joins Angle, Anchor, and Voice to discuss the role of Syrian women in shaping Syria’s future

By Atlantic Council

Middle East Resilience & Society

In the News

Feb 25, 2025

Kabawat mentioned in Catholic Culture on the committee drafting Syria’s new constitution

By Atlantic Council

Elections Middle East

In the News

Feb 25, 2025

Kabawat mentioned in Agenzia Fides on her task in drafting Syria’s new constitution

By Atlantic Council

Middle East Political Reform

In the News

Feb 25, 2025

Kabawat quoted in ABC News on the Kurds’ role in Syria

By Atlantic Council

Civil Society Middle East

In the News

Feb 25, 2025

Kabawat quoted in New You Info on the future of Russian military bases in Syria

By Atlantic Council

Defense Industry Middle East

Economic Statecraft Initiative

Feb 14, 2025

Global Sanctions Dashboard cited by RUSI on Wagner’s business model in Syria and Africa

Read the full article here

Financial Sanctions and Economic Coercion General Africa

Experts

Events