Critics say Syrian Transitional Government’s organization of National Dialogue Conference continues exclusionary practices

DARAMSUQ — The Syrian Transitional Government’s (STG) announcement and rushed organization of the National Dialogue Conference has triggered widespread condemnation, both locally and internationally, due to the exclusion of representatives from key Syrian political parties and communities.

The Conference, held in Daramsuq (Damascus), has been denounced for perpetuating a pattern of exclusion and marginalization. Critics argue that this approach undermines the essence of a true national dialogue and raises questions about the government’s commitment to inclusivity.

Farhad Shami, Director of the Media Center for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), and Ilham Ahmed, Co-Chair of the Foreign Relations Department of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES), stated that neither entity was invited to participate. They described the exclusion as a blatant indication of the STG’s unwillingness to engage with diverse political voices.

Diverse Criticism Highlights Exclusion

Hikmat al-Hijri, the spiritual leader of the Druze community in Syria, also expressed his dissatisfaction in an interview with Reuters. He criticized the Conference’s lack of broad representation, questioning the credibility of the STG to lead the nation toward a unified, civil state.

Diplomatic sources echoed these concerns. Western diplomats and two United Nations officials confirmed to Reuters that the STG had dismissed UN-backed proposals aimed at fostering a more inclusive conference. This rejection has further cast doubt on the event’s legitimacy and its potential to produce meaningful outcomes.

Sanharib Barsom, Co-Chair of the Syriac Union Party (SUP), previously condemned the Conference, describing its organizing committee as incomplete and unrepresentative. Barsom argued that the committee’s exclusion of political parties, blocs, and ethnic community representatives reflects a single ideological perspective.

“This is a grave mistake against the Syrian people,” Barsom stated, warning that the lack of inclusivity jeopardizes the credibility and effectiveness of any national dialogue initiative. He called for all political, ethnic, and social groups to have a voice in shaping Syria’s future, emphasizing that alienating these communities would only deepen divisions.

Historical Patterns of Marginalization

The Conference has unfolded against the backdrop of decades of political suppression and systematic exclusion of large segments of Syrian society. While many had hoped that the National Dialogue Conference would mark a step toward reconciliation, critics argue it instead replicates the exclusionary practices of the past.

Analysts warn that the STG’s approach undermines progress toward a political resolution for Syria. Rather than fostering unity, the exclusionary tactics risk further alienating key communities and obstructing efforts to achieve a comprehensive and lasting solution to the nation’s crisis.

Without broad representation and genuine inclusivity, observers fear the National Dialogue Conference will be remembered as a missed opportunity to address Syria’s deep-seated challenges and lay the groundwork for a stable and unified future.