In a dictator’s palace, Syrians debate a new constitution
Ahmed al-Sharaa will soon have to reveal how sincere he is about the new, inclusive Syria
Hundreds of Syrians gathered on February 25th in the opulent reception hall of what is now called the People’s Palace in Damascus. They had come to discuss a new constitution. Islamists, communists, feminists, even a celebrated actress, all rushed to greet and be photographed with Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s jihadist-turned-president. It was a scene unimaginable under the former regime.
Explore more
This article appeared in the Middle East & Africa section of the print edition under the headline “Talking the talk”
From the March 1st 2025 edition
Discover stories from this section and more in the list of contents
Explore the edition
Israel’s army adopts a high-stakes new strategy: more terrain
It remains present inside Syria, Lebanon, Gaza and the West Bank
The sea is swallowing an African island
In Sierra Leone, adjusting to a warmer climate is getting harder
Could political upheaval hit Jordan next?
Resurgent Islamists and chaos in the West Bank may threaten Jordan’s king
Israel and Hamas have something in common
They both want to avoid a ceasefire collapse, for a few more weeks
How to make cash in Africa’s coup belt
Mining multinationals are learning to do business with juntas
Syria’s next steps towards a new order
Will Syria’s leader make good on his promises?