On the Necessity of a Political Parties Law as a Prelude to Democracy in Syria (opens original article in a new tab)

Syria's transitional government faces pressure to enact a political parties law to lay the groundwork for democracy, despite challenges from communal ties, extremism, and institutional neutrality.

• Syria lacks a political parties law nearly 18 months after the Assad regime's fall
• The article argues that political parties are necessary for democracy but warns against extremist groups
• A parties law is seen as a critical step to prevent fragmentation and build a modern state
• The transitional government is urged to create a fair political environment and insulate institutions from partisan conflict