Context:

In a significant move towards the transition from decades of Assad family rule, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa recently announced the formation of a transitional government. This new cabinet, which includes 23 ministers, is considered a key milestone in Syria’s political transformation, aimed at fostering inclusivity and improving the country’s relations with the West. 

Composition of the Transitional Government

The newly formed cabinet reflects Syria’s diverse ethnic and religious communities, addressing demands from Western and Arab countries for a more inclusive government. Although the government is led by Sunni Islamist authorities, it includes key appointments from minority groups to promote national unity.

Notable appointments include:

• Yarub Badr, an Alawite, named Minister of Transportation. The Alawite community, from which Bashar al-Assad hails, has faced tensions following recent violence along Syria’s western coast.
• Amgad Badr, a Druze, appointed Minister of Agriculture.
• Hind Kabawat, a Christian woman and former opposition member who worked for interfaith tolerance, appointed Minister of Social Affairs and Labor.
• Mohammed Yosr Bernieh as Finance Minister.

Additionally, Murhaf Abu Qasra and Asaad al-Shibani retained their positions as Defense and Foreign Ministers, respectively.

·        New Ministries and Roles: For the first time, Syria has established a Ministry of Sports and a Ministry of Emergencies. The head of the White Helmets, Raed al-Saleh, has been appointed Minister of Emergencies, reflecting a focus on disaster management.

·        Leadership and Transitional Goals: Ahmed al-Sharaa, named interim president in January 2025, has committed to forming an inclusive government to restore Syria’s institutions. The government will oversee the country until elections, which may take up to five years to organize. Notably, the government will operate without a prime minister, with Sharaa leading the executive branch.

Constitutional Framework

Syria’s constitutional declaration, issued recently, outlines the framework for the transitional period. It maintains the centrality of Islamic law while also guaranteeing women’s rights and freedom of expression, striving to balance traditional values with modern reforms.

Conclusion

The formation of Syria's new transitional government represents a significant step in rebuilding the country after the fall of the Assad regime. With its focus on inclusivity, the government aims to address national reconciliation, restore public institutions, and set the stage for elections. While challenges remain, the government’s ability to implement reforms will shape Syria’s future direction.