Syrians Celebrate One Year Since Overthrow of Assad Regime

On March 15, 2024, hundreds of thousands of Syrians took to the streets to celebrate the first anniversary of the overthrow of former dictator Bashar al-Assad. The day was marked by fireworks, music, and vibrant displays of national pride as people in cities like Damascus and Homs joined together in joyous festivities, reflecting a nation in recovery after nearly 15 years of conflict.

The celebrations commemorated the fall of the al-Assad regime, which ended after an 11-day offensive by opposition forces. The successful campaign put a halt to the 53-year dominance of the Assad dynasty, leading to widespread jubilation across various cities. Videos shared on social media depicted scenes of revelry, with citizens waving flags and participating in military parades organized by the Ministry of Defence.

During a press conference in Damascus, President Ahmed al-Sharaa paid tribute to the fighters who contributed to the regime’s downfall. “Today we mark one year of liberating Syria from the shackles of tyranny and dictatorship,” he stated. He emphasized the significance of this moment, urging citizens to stand proud of their nation’s resilience.

President al-Sharaa, dressed in military uniform, also participated in the dawn prayer at the historic Umayyad Mosque. He underscored the government’s commitment to rebuilding the country, stating, “We will face all challenges, God willing. We will rebuild a strong Syria worthy of its present and its past.”

Over the past year, the new government has begun essential reconstruction efforts, including restoring basic services. For the first time in 15 years, cities like Aleppo, Homs, and Damascus have started receiving uninterrupted electricity on a trial basis following significant repair work on the national power grid. Furthermore, notorious prisons, such as the military facility known as Sednaya, have been permanently closed.

Despite the celebration, challenges remain. The war, which began in 2011, resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands and displaced over 6.8 million Syrians, leading to one of the largest migration crises in recent history. According to the International Organisation for Migration, more than 782,000 individuals have returned from abroad in the past year, indicating a cautious optimism for the future.

Yet, many young Syrians express mixed feelings about their homeland’s recovery. Student Maha Khail shared her sentiments with Al Jazeera, stating, “We have victory, but we lost years, homes, children. The real story begins now.” She highlighted the ongoing struggles with housing affordability and job opportunities, prompting some to contemplate moving abroad for better prospects.

While the nation celebrates its newfound freedom, the road ahead remains fraught with obstacles. Cities like Aleppo, which faced extensive damage during the conflict, could require “billions of dollars” for reconstruction, according to reports from Al Jazeera. The lingering issues of infrastructure and the repatriation of millions of refugees continue to pose significant challenges as the country seeks to establish stability and rebuild its future.

As Syria marks this pivotal anniversary, the resilience and hope of its people shine through the hardships they face. The vibrant celebrations serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the ongoing journey toward a brighter future.