Executive Summary
The new government in post-Assad Syria faces a crucial moment. Instead of acting like a mature government, a worrying pattern has appeared. Their approach to rule is reactive, almost childish, like a brutal militia rather than a proper state. This “eye for an eye” thinking, marked by quick reactions and using force, is deeply concerning. It shows a clear lack of set procedures, long-term planning, and a basic misunderstanding of good, responsible governance. For a stable and fair future, Syria’s new leaders must quickly change from this immature, militia-like behavior to the calm, principled actions of a true government.
Impulsive Reactions
One clear sign of this immature governance is the government’s impulsive reactions. Like a child lashing out in anger, their responses to threats or crimes are instant and often too strong. They lack the careful thought and long-term planning expected from a national authority. This “knee-jerk” approach focuses on immediate revenge rather than smart solutions. It creates an unstable situation. It fails to fix the real causes of problems and risks making violence and anger worse, harming any hope for lasting stability.
Moreover, this reactive stance shows a lack of proper procedures. Governments should work with clear rules, legal systems, and official processes. Relying on brutal force and seemingly random decisions suggests a dangerous absence of these vital structures. This mirrors the quick, unplanned decisions often seen in militias, not in the organized halls of government.
The “Eye for an Eye” Mentality
This “militia mindset” also includes a troubling “eye for an eye” philosophy. In a legitimate government, justice is given through a fair and unbiased legal system. This system follows due process and ensures punishments fit the crime. But the actions seen suggest a crude form of revenge-based justice, where vengeance is more important than established law. This approach not only weakens the rule of law but also actively destroys any chance of national reconciliation. It keeps cycles of violence going and deepens societal divisions, making the already fragile peace even more uncertain. True governance requires a commitment to a justice system that is both fair and aims to restore, not one driven by a sudden desire for revenge.
Failing Citizens
Crucially, a government’s main duty is to its citizens. This new Syrian leadership seems to be failing in this basic responsibility. Instead of putting the well-being and safety of all Syrians first, their actions suggest a focus on gaining and keeping power through fear. A responsible government invests in essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. It also creates social safety nets to protect those who are vulnerable. It builds an environment where citizens feel safe, secure, and have chances to succeed. The current path, marked by brutality and reactive violence, actively harms these essential functions. It neglects the very people the government is supposed to serve. Building lasting peace and order needs more than just stopping disagreement; it demands creating a society where citizens feel protected by law and trust their government’s commitment to their well-being.
Selective Justice
Perhaps most damning is the emerging pattern of selective justice. While the government’s harsh hand falls on “small offenders,” often the most vulnerable people, there is a disturbing silence about the “big dogs”, those truly responsible for the war’s terrible acts and widespread corruption. This unfair use of force and accountability is not only morally wrong but also strategically disastrous. It causes deep anger and destroys any public trust. A government that truly wants to be legitimate must show that no one is above the law, no matter their power or connections. Accountability must apply to everyone, reaching even the highest levels of power, to address past wrongs and prevent future abuses. Targeting the weak while protecting the powerful is not strength; it shows weakness, injustice, and ultimately, it leads to continued instability.
A Path to Mature Governance
To move away from this dangerous path, the new Syrian government must change fundamentally. They must get rid of the reactive impulses of a “childish militia” and adopt the calm, responsible actions of a mature government. This requires a multi-part approach:
Establish a strong rule of law and an independent justice system.
Make governance official through clear procedures and a professional civil service.
Shift from reactive brutality to proactive problem-solving and dialogue.
Prioritise the well-being and security of all Syrian citizens.
Furthermore, a real commitment to accountability, for all who committed war crimes and human rights abuses, regardless of their status, is essential. Only by embracing these principles of mature governance can Syria hope to emerge from the shadow of conflict and build a future based on justice, stability, and truly serving its people.
