On December 8, 2024, Syria reached a historic turning point. After 14 years of conflict and 54 years of Assad rule, the regime collapsed. A coalition led by Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS)—a UN-designated terrorist group governing Idlib since 2016—took power in an 11-day, bloodless offensive, promising inclusivity and reform.
This brief examines the emerging transitional system, focusing on the new legislature’s structure and election mechanism. It analyzes representation, inclusivity, diversity, transparency, and accountability—assessing whether this shift marks genuine change or a rebranded form of authoritarian control, and offering recommendations for a credible path forward.