University of Turin symposium concludes after discussions on Syria’s future

The second day of the symposium, titled “Where is Syria Heading?”, began in the morning with the participation of scholars and researchers from several countries, along with a delegation from the University of Kobani.

Final Session

Power Structures, Competing Identities, and Contested Environments: Understanding the Challenges Ahead

The session was chaired by researcher Enia Fiori and focused on transformations of power and identity formation in post-conflict environments, as well as future challenges.

In his presentation, Patrick Haenni discussed the issue of trust-building between the state and society, emphasizing the need to balance strong governance institutions with political openness to achieve sustainable stability..

The Co-President of the University of Kobani, Sherfan Muslim, presented a paper titled “The Academic Integration Process,” highlighting the role of educational institutions in rebuilding social cohesion and promoting understanding among different communities. He argued that academic integration is a key pathway to fostering a culture of dialogue.

Muslim also addressed the integration of education and higher education institutions into the structures of the Syrian Interim Government, discussing both the challenges and opportunities of this process and its implications for the future of Syria’s education sector.

Meanwhile, Miriam Macchi examined the governance of natural resources in post-war Syria, stressing that resource management will play a central role in reshaping the political system and promoting economic stability.

Davide Grasso presented a paper calling for a broader socio-political interpretation of Syria’s transition, moving beyond traditional ethnic explanations and focusing on social dynamics and internal interactions.

Closing Roundtable

Political, Economic, and Legal Prospects for a New Syria

The symposium concluded with a roundtable moderated by journalist Zaina Erhaim, featuring Jihad Yazigi, Aziza Aslan, Pinar Deng, Mazen Azzi, and Abdel Hay Sayyed.

Participants discussed future visions for a new Syria, focusing on economic recovery, legal reforms, and rebuilding political institutions. They emphasized the importance of balancing transitional justice with stability, and reconstruction efforts with the rule of law.

In a special interview, Ashraf Mahmoud, a member of the University of Kobani’s Relations Office, described the discussions as positive, particularly regarding Syria’s future. He stressed the need for effective partnerships between local and international actors, as well as a stronger role for civil society and academia in shaping public policy.

Mahmoud noted that the University of Kobani was officially invited to participate in the symposium and that Sherfan Muslim delivered a lecture on academic integration and the incorporation of educational institutions into the Syrian Interim Government.

Discussions also addressed the role of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), the possibility of their integration into a unified military structure, military integration issues, and Syria’s service, economic, health, environmental, and women-related challenges.

The symposium concluded with a call for continued academic and political dialogue and the establishment of sustainable communication channels to help develop practical visions for a more stable and just future for Syria.

ANHA