Syria between Syria and Germany

The year 2024 ended with a big surprise, and not just for many Syrians: The fall of Bashar al-Assad ended a 54-year reign of terror that cost hundreds of thousands of lives, drove millions abroad and left the rest in poverty. And now? While Western media remained skeptical and only reported selectively, songs of freedom resounded through Syrian streets and released political prisoners returned home. Parties and media are being formed. Sanctions are being lifted. Numerous refugee artists and intellectuals have returned to understand what is happening – and what remains to be done. Many are torn between deportation slogans, the existence they have painstakingly built up in Germany, the feeling of alienation and the desire to participate in political change and the rebuilding of their shattered country. How can all groups be taken into account? What is the part played by outsiders? And what is the role of the many citizens in Germany who have worked with Syrians over the years, forged friendships and started families? At the „Forum Offene Gesellschaft“, three Syrians – a women's rights activist, a filmmaker and a writer – as well as the author Vanessa Vu will talk about their impressions of the country, about difficult debates here and there, and will discuss ways to support a democratic transformation.