As Syria embarks on its journey towards democracy following the ousting of President Bashar Assad, it faces a myriad of challenges that have plagued other countries in the region during their transition periods.
Lessons from Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Yemen, and Sudan highlight the complexities involved in such transitions. Armed factions vying for power, military interference, and external influences have often derailed the democratic process.
Yemen
Yemen's transition was marred by the power struggle between former President Ali Abdullah Saleh and Houthi rebels, leading to a devastating civil war and humanitarian crisis.
Libya
Libya's post-Gadhafi era saw the country fragmented among militias and rival administrations, with foreign powers exacerbating the conflict.
Sudan
In Sudan, the military thwarted civilian attempts at governance, leading to internal strife and a humanitarian catastrophe.
Tunisia
Once hailed as a democratic success story, Tunisia now grapples with a power grab by President Kais Saied, raising concerns about democratic backsliding.
Egypt
Egypt's transition witnessed the military's dominance, culminating in the removal of President Mohammed Morsi and a crackdown on dissent, consolidating military control.
As Syria navigates its transition, the challenges of extremist factions, ethnic tensions, and power-sharing arrangements loom large. The international community plays a crucial role in supporting Syria's democratic aspirations while avoiding the pitfalls that have plagued other nations in the region.
