Syria’s Reconstruction Challenges: Insights from Jobar’s Destruction
Syria faces significant reconstruction challenges after the civil war, exemplified by the devastation in Jobar and ongoing issues of ownership and governance. The new leadership under Ahmad Al Shara is exploring international investments amidst skepticism from citizens and potential investors regarding recovery and progress in rebuilding essential services and infrastructure.
In December, before facing the collapse of his regime, Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad and his wife Asma conducted tours through previously rebel-held territories, with a notable visit in 2018 to Jobar. This suburb of Damascus, heavily impacted by the civil war, underwent destruction from relentless artillery fire and airstrikes. Following Jobar’s surrender, Assad’s regime commissioned students to create sculptures in a rebel-dug tunnel, aiming to laud those responsible for the town’s obliteration while presenting a façade of peace.
The devastation of Jobar exemplifies the extensive reconstruction challenges facing Syria, which extend beyond mere physical rebuilding; they encompass the need for global investment and support. With a fragmented governance structure, the new leaders in Syria lack necessary resources and face significant hurdles including currency instability and a shortage of professionals. Moreover, a UN report indicates that one-third of housing in Syria has been either destroyed or damaged during the war.
Under the Assad regime, property rights in Syria were poorly defined, complicating ownership claims post-conflict, especially in areas where buildings were razed. Many former Jobar residents, like Haitham Al Bakhit, regularly revisit their devastated hometown, linking its fate with their own sense of identity. Jobar, although adjacent to Damascus, faces severe administrative challenges exacerbated by the destruction of essential facilities like hospitals, leaving the community fragmented and struggling.
Sculptures in Jobar’s tunnel depict soldiers in non-violent scenarios, contrasting starkly with the reality of brutal repression experienced during the Assad regime. Under the new leadership of Ahmad Al Shara, a figure previously associated with Al-Qaeda, hopes emerge for a potential reformation of Syria’s governance. President Al Shara’s government has begun to attract some international aid but still requires significant investments for widespread infrastructural recovery and essential services.
Western nations have started to ease sanctions as new leadership emerges, with hope building for a more acceptable government. Analysts believe if Al Shara can navigate geopolitical dynamics, particularly concerning Israel and HTS’s influence, he may enhance prospects for international funding. However, many citizens express skepticism about whether past mistakes will be avoided in the new political landscape.
Signs of recovery remain scarce in Jobar and surrounding Damascus, with ongoing uncertainty about property ownership hindering investment. Incidents of HTS forcibly evicting occupants highlight the potential for corruption overshadowing recovery efforts. Prospective investors remain hesitant, deterred by security concerns and the lengthy restoration of credible state institutions, indicating that recovery in Syria may mimic the slow and painful rebuilding of Lebanon.
The road to Syria’s recovery is fraught with immense challenges, including political uncertainty, economic instability, and a shambolic reconstruction process. The devastation witnessed in areas like Jobar serves as a stark reminder of the severe obstacles that lie ahead. With international aid offers limited and internal governance structures still in their infancy, the path to a stable and rebuilt Syria remains complex and uncertain.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
