Syrian Parliamentary Elections Pave Way for Potential Assad Term Extension

On July 15, 2024, Syrians participated in a parliamentary election that may set the stage for a constitutional amendment extending President Bashar Assad’s term. This election, the fourth since the 2011 uprising, excludes rebel-held regions and faces criticism for lacking transparency. With Syria’s economy in dire straits due to years of conflict, sanctions, and the pandemic, voters are prioritizing economic recovery.

The ruling Baath Party’s candidates are poised to secure a majority, potentially enabling a constitutional change. Despite low-key campaigning and calls for boycotts in protest-ridden regions, the election results are expected to reinforce Assad’s grip on power.