Syrian labour market in turmoil

“Syria is fine” and “it’s over” are two oft-repeated assertions among Syrian officials, collaborators and supporters of the regime, referring to the supposed end of the Syrian crisis. Facts on the ground, however, indicate that Syrians have many more difficult days ahead of them, whether the crisis ends now or continues until the regime is [...]

Economy Key in Syria Uprising

Consequences of current instability on employment, job market and inflation cannot be underestimated Syria’s political situation has inevitably affected its economy. The market is far from encouraging for workers and the economic situation is instable. As Syrian officials’ sonorous statements continue, depicting the regime and its leader as the tender father who solves many problems, [...]

A Decade in Power, part 6: The Market, but at what cost?

Today, Damascus is a thriving, yet divided city. A small elite of nouveaux riches enjoy life to the fullest, drive the latest car models, shop in fancy fashion stores and dine in expensive restaurants. The majority of the Syrians though struggle hard to make ends meet. The celebration of President Bashar Al-Assad’s tenth anniversary of [...]

What Does the Octopus Predict for Syria?

SMN No. 6, July 28, 2010 The whole world has raved about the accurate predictions of Paul the Octopus regarding July’s World Cup matches - but could he foresee the future of Syria? This question was raised ironically by one Syrian blogger who “asked” the Octopus to envisage the effect of the current Syrian economic [...]