Ivan M. Nielson: Pathways to Unity, Governance, and International Engagement in Post-Assad Syria

In this insightful episode in our Mini Series on Post-Assad Syria, we welcome Ivan M. Nielsen, a seasoned Danish diplomat and former special representative for the Syria crisis. Drawing on his extensive experience in conflict resolution, human rights, and constitution building, Ivan reflects on lessons from the Geneva peace talks and shares his assessment of Syria’s evolving governance landscape.

From the Assad regime’s divisive tactics to the challenges of engaging with Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) under its current terrorism designation, Ivan explores the critical tracks that must be advanced in parallel for a successful Syrian transition: security, service delivery (including education, electricity, healthcare, transportation, and infrastructure), and civic space (politics, governance, and civil society). He underscores the importance of the international community listening to Syrians to understand their needs, avoiding the imposition of rushed timelines for essential governmental transitions, and ensuring external support aligns with Syrian priorities rather than Western-driven agendas.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on the road ahead for Syria, including the obstacles, opportunities, and how hope and unity are shaping the vision for a post-Assad future.

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