The Syrian Transitional Government (STG) has pledged to rebuild state institutions on principles of transparency, accountability, and justice under its Syria Vision 2045. Yet entrenched networks, economic devastation, and fragile security raise doubts about whether such reforms mark genuine systemic change or symbolic gestures.

Drawing on documentary analysis and interviews with Syrian officials, civil society actors, and international partners, we present a U4 Issue paper that assesses the credibility, scope, and internal consistency of new policies.
This Partner Forum will also more broadly reflect on the prospects for anti-corruption and governance reform in Syria.

This event is by invitation only for

• Staff of U4 partner agencies, especially those working on Syria and the Middle East at headquarters and embassies. U4 Contact: David Jackson.

Wednesday, 3 December 2025
14:00– 15:00 CET (Berlin, Oslo, Stockholm)
13:00– 14:00 GMT (London)
08:00– 09:00 EST (Ottawa)

Agenda and speakers

Welcome and introduction – Hilde Selbervik – U4 Director
David Jackson / Robert Forster

Presentation – Joseph Daher, University of Lausanne
Abdullah al-Jabassini, Central European University, Vienna

Reflections –  Rim Turkmani, LSE Middle East Centre