Approaches to Syrian Civil Society Dossier

This collection of articles explores the complexities and challenges facing Syrian civil society since the 2011 revolution.  It examines how civil society has evolved in a volatile environment, grappling with issues of funding, ethical dilemmas, and the tension between emergency response and long-term goals.  The collection aims to shed light on internal discussions and debates within Syrian civil society, addressing the lack of transparency and the chilling effect of social media criticism.  It prioritizes the voices of activists and practitioners, offering diverse perspectives on topics such as feminist organizing, the relationship between civil society and victims’ groups, the challenges of working in regime-controlled areas, and the impact of sanctions and strategic litigation.  While acknowledging limitations, such as the exclusion of humanitarian work and a deliberate avoidance of the financing issue, the collection seeks to stimulate public debate and contribute to a deeper understanding of Syrian civil society.