This paper presents a quality comprehensive vision of Syrian youth (young men and women) of the reality and future of the transitional period after one year of the fall of the previous regime. The paper’s point of departure is that Syrian youth are not merely a ‘target group’ of developmental programs. Rather, they constitute a crucial actor for sustainable peace in Syria.

This vision is based on analyzing field data deducted from 10 focus group discussions involving 88 participants in 10 Syrian governorates to ensure representation of all geographic, political and social variations. The sessions were moderated by young facilitators from SWPM’s Young Women Politicians Forum to ensure a ‘safe space’ which allows communicating critical views away from censorship or stigma.

This paper affirms that stability in Syria 2030 is contingent on the extent to which the transitional period can transform the youth from being a “political decoration” to sovereign partners who have the tools, agency and recognition.

Prepared by the Young Women Politicians Forum: Hanan Ahmad, Hanaa Alkhudr, Ola Alassaad

Supervised by: Doris Awwad

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