Syrian Public Sector Faces Collapse After Rebel Takeover

Syria’s public sector has come to a standstill following the dramatic overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces. With government workers hesitant to return to their jobs, essential services have been disrupted, including the suspension of critical aid deliveries. Despite efforts by the incoming government to stabilize the country, the absence of many state employees has led to a complete breakdown in public sector operations.

Disruption in Government Services and Aid Deliveries
The abrupt cessation of services has been highlighted by the United Nations as a significant challenge for the country. Adam Abdelmoula, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria, reported that urgent medical aid flights were delayed after aviation employees abandoned their posts. With the country having been under Assad’s leadership for over five decades, the sudden change in governance has left many workers unsure about their future roles under the new rebel leadership. The U.N. believes it may take several days of assurance from the armed groups before workers feel secure enough to return to their duties.

Political Transition Discussions and Rebel Leadership Shift
The political shift has also resulted in talks between rebel leaders and the outgoing Assad government. Ahmad al-Shaara, the leader of the HTS (Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham), met with Prime Minister Mohammad al-Jalai to discuss the future of the Syrian state. While the group has promised a representative government and religious tolerance, many in the West are watching closely. The UK and the US are reportedly reconsidering the classification of HTS as a terrorist organization, as al-Golani, the group’s leader, has distanced himself from Al Qaida.

Refugees Return, Seeking Peace and Reconnecting with Family
In addition to the political and economic disruptions, thousands of refugees are returning to Syria in hopes of a more peaceful future. Many are seeking relatives who disappeared under Assad’s regime, while others return to help rebuild the country. Damascus, while still quiet, is beginning to show signs of recovery, with civilian traffic resuming and some public spaces coming back to life. However, long lines remain outside bakeries and food stores as the population struggles to cope with the ongoing instability.

Families Await News of Missing Loved Ones
Perhaps one of the most emotional consequences of the regime’s fall is the uncertainty surrounding those who disappeared or were imprisoned during Assad’s rule. Families are gathering outside prisons, security offices, and courts, hoping for news of their loved ones. At the Saydnaya military prison, known for its brutal conditions and mass executions, detainees were freed after rebels broke open the cells. Human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International, have long condemned the prison for its role in systematic human rights abuses, estimating that up to 13,000 Syrians were executed there between 2011 and 2016.