Syrians Celebrate One Year Since Al-Assad’s Departure

Damascus, Syria – On December 8, 2023, Syrians prepared to celebrate the first anniversary of the departure of Bashar al-Assad, marking a significant moment in the country’s tumultuous history. In the heart of Damascus, Umayyad Square transformed into a vibrant scene, with children waving the green, white, and black flag as fireworks lit up the night sky. Although the official celebrations were two days away, crowds began to gather, reflecting a sense of hope and communal spirit.

Among the onlookers was Abu Taj, a 24-year-old who recently returned to Syria after a decade-long exile. His journey began when conflict destroyed his home in the Aleppo countryside, forcing him to flee to various countries, including Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Just over a week before the anniversary, he found himself back in his homeland, witnessing the celebrations marking the liberation of Damascus, which led to Assad’s flight to Moscow. “The culture of the country is now for the people,” he expressed to Al Jazeera, indicating his optimism for Syria’s future.

Reflections on the Past Year

The end of Assad’s regime has been a watershed moment for many Syrians. December 8 not only symbolizes liberation but also the fall of a brutal police state notorious for human rights abuses. For numerous citizens, this change brought a collective sigh of relief, the first since Hafez al-Assad assumed power in 1970. Initial reactions ranged from celebrations to apprehensions about the road ahead, with many fearing a trajectory similar to Iraq post-invasion or Libya after Gaddafi’s fall.

Despite the hopes that accompanied the regime’s collapse, the past year has not been without its challenges. Violence erupted in various regions, notably along the Syrian coast in March and in Suwayda in July, often attributed to factions aligned with the former government. Tensions threatened to escalate in Homs, Syria’s third-largest city, before intervention restored some semblance of order.

A Day of Celebration

As preparations for the anniversary unfolded, the streets of Damascus were adorned with the national flag. Children painted their faces in the colors of the Syrian flag, while vendors sold flags in major squares, such as Marjeh. One returning resident, Omran, 22, expressed joy at reuniting with his mother after nearly a decade apart. He planned to join the festivities in Umayyad Square, hopeful for a brighter future. “We will all be so happy, thank God,” he said.

The atmosphere in the city was electric as people flocked to Umayyad Square for the main celebration. Many young adults arrived in minivans and on scooters, eagerly anticipating the festivities. Among them was Abdelaziz al-Omari, 21, from the Palestinian camp of Yarmouk, who waved both the Syrian and Palestinian flags. “We came here today to celebrate the anniversary of the liberation,” he told Al Jazeera. “We were oppressed, but now our sadness has been released.”

As the celebrations continued into the early hours of Saturday morning, the weather took an unexpected turn, with thunderstorms forecast for the following days. Despite this, the spirits of the celebrants remained high, with many determined to honor the anniversary, carrying with them the memories of past hardships and a renewed sense of hope.

Standing in Umayyad Square, lawyer Rahma al-Taha reflected on the previous year. She noted the initial lack of security but pointed out that conditions have improved significantly. “Everything is better, and every month we’re seeing new things,” she remarked, conveying a sentiment echoed by many. “There is hope.”