The southern governorate of Sweida in Syria has witnessed a second day of general strike and civil disobedience, with over 20 protests reported. Authorities closed routes in and out of the city of Sweida, and several government offices and institutions were shut down. The demonstrations are in response to rising prices for food and goods, as well as discontent with the Syrian government’s decision to increase fuel subsidies. Migrants and locals alike have also called for the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad.
The protests highlight concerns over economic decline, chaos, and widespread corruption within state institutions. The economic pressures, coupled with alleged mismanagement of state resources, have fueled grievances against the government. Many protesters argue that al-Assad’s regime has consolidated power among his close associates and facilitated foreign influence, leading to calls for change and justice.
The protests reflect a broader trend of discontent in Syria, where economic hardships and political grievances continue to fuel dissent. While the focus of these demonstrations is on economic challenges, they are accompanied by political demands, including the release of detainees and opposition to the government’s handling of resources and alliances with foreign powers.
The governorate of Sweida, which is predominantly inhabited by the Druze religious minority, has seen protests before, albeit infrequently due to its government control. However, ongoing economic difficulties and perceived government failures have driven people to the streets, expressing their frustrations.
The protests also extend beyond Sweida, as nearby Daraa has also witnessed demonstrations. Daraa was the birthplace of the Syrian revolution and has been a significant focal point for dissent against the al-Assad regime. Protests in Daraa demand the release of detainees and the overthrow of the government. While opposition forces lost control of much of Daraa in 2018, opposition sentiment remains strong, with critics accusing the regime of continuing crackdowns and harassment.
The ongoing protests underscore the resilience of dissent in government-controlled regions of Syria. Despite the government’s efforts to suppress criticism, economic challenges and political frustrations continue to fuel public demonstrations. The discontent extends beyond specific economic issues to broader demands for justice, accountability, and political change. The recent wave of protests in Sweida and Daraa may encourage further mobilization in other parts of Syria, reigniting calls for reform and potentially challenging the al-Assad regime’s grip on power.
