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This research examines the evolving relationship between the Syrian political regime and Sunni religious institutions from Hafez al-Assad's era to the present, particularly post-2011.

May 15, 2026Open Access

The Relationship between the Religious Institution and the Political Regime in Syria after the Arab Spring 2011

Key Points

This research examines the evolving relationship between the Syrian political regime and Sunni religious institutions from Hafez al-Assad's era to the present, particularly post-2011.
Analyzed historical developments in the political and religious landscape of Syria
Investigated significant changes during the Syrian revolution
Examined administrative reforms implemented by the regime post-war.
The regime has strategically utilized religious tools to gain support against opposition.
Post-war administrative measures included the dismantling of key religious positions and restructuring councils.
The regime's actions reflect a desire to control religious narratives linked to Syrian identity.

Abstract

The relationship between the political regime and the Sunni religious establishment in Syria during the time of Hafez al-Assad until now has witnessed major turning points and historical eras and has gone through periods of ebb and flow. One of these stages is the era of the Syrian revolution within the Arab Spring of 2011 in the region. Within the framework of the regime's battle to confront the rebellion against it, which in part took on a religious character, the regime used its religious tools to garner legitimate support for it and its practices against those who were considered to be outside it. The post-war political regime also took several administrative measures, such as abolishing the position of General Mufti and sub-Mufti positions in November 2021, restructuring the "Scientific Jurisprudence Council" affiliated with the Ministry of Endowments in the regime's government, and expanding the tasks and powers of the council to include fatwas, due to the regime's interference in a religious symbolism linked to the Syrian identity.

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