Transformation of Being ‘Wanted’ in Syria: From Fear to Pride

In Syria, the stigma of being “wanted” by the Assad regime has transformed into a symbol of pride among citizens. Individuals like Kazem Togan now see this status as recognition of their resistance to oppression, with many openly inquiring about their names on the regime’s lists. This shift signals a break from the fear that dominated for over five decades, embracing a culture of resilience and defiance against past tyranny.

In contemporary Syria, the perception of being “wanted” has significantly transformed from an object of fear to a source of pride. Under the regime of Bashar al-Assad, a system was established in which millions were categorized on various wanted lists by the regime’s intelligence and security branches. This marked individuals with a dreaded status, as such listings could lead to detention or worse, often leading to a lifetime of terror for those named.

Kazem Togan, a journalist who had been active in opposition media, exemplified this shift upon his recent return to Syria after 12 years. Upon inquiry, the passport control agent informed him of his wanted status by branch 235, delivering this news with a smile. Togan expressed elation about being recognized: “Today, every Syrian asks as a matter of routine, ‘Was I wanted?’” This sentiment reflects a broader trend where those who faced the regime’s wrath now regard their status as commendable.

For over five decades, the Assad family ruled Syria through fear, where being on a wanted list meant risking an abrupt disappearance into the regime’s repressive prison system. The ability to inquire about one’s own name on such a list, now frequently done among citizens, symbolizes a rejection of past oppression. Irrespective of their past fears, many Syrians are now celebrating their experiences of being sought by a government infamous for its atrocities against its own populace, reframing their status as evidence of resilience and resistance to tyranny.

The evolution of the perception of being wanted in Syria highlights the changing dynamics in a post-regime society. Where once it was a mark of fear, it has become a demonstration of bravery in the face of oppression. This newfound pride signifies a collective resilience against a regime that ruled through terror, and for many, being “wanted” is now synonymous with standing against unjust governance.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com