Refugee Return and Pluralism: Shaping the Future of Post-Assad Syria

This paper investigates the potential for establishing a pluralistic state in Syria following the collapse of the Assad regime in December 2024. In the context of ongoing civil conflict and the nation’s ethnic and religious diversity, the research examines whether the new political landscape under Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) can foster a genuinely pluralistic society. Central to this inquiry are two key questions: Can the new Syrian state be a pluralist state? How does the return of Syrian refugees from various countries influence this process? The paper will analyze the theoretical foundations of pluralism and its relevance to Syria, alongside a historical overview of the country’s governance models. Additionally, it will assess the role of returning refugees in enriching Syria’s social fabric and contributing to the establishment of a pluralistic state. Through this elaboration, the paper aims to illuminate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Syria as it seeks to redefine its national identity and governance structures in a post-conflict era.