The Complex Dynamics of Secular Support for Assad in Syria

When discussing the political landscape in Syria, secular support for Bashar al-Assad is a topic that often arises. The dynamics that have influenced this support are complex and multifaceted. This article aims to explore the reasons why some secular Syrians support the Syrian regime, as well as the broader context surrounding the opposition to the Assad regime.

Historical Context and Initial Support

Before the onset of the Syrian civil war, many secular Syrians did not support the Assad regime due to reasons such as corruption and the regime’s semi-secular status. Under the Bashar al-Assad regime, the president must be a Muslim, which is a requirement that goes against secularism. This was seen as a hindrance to the religious freedom and initially led to widespread discontent among secular individuals.

Shifts in Support Following the War

However, the situation changed significantly following the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011. In the early stages of the conflict, many secular Syrians found themselves supporting Assad. This shift can be attributed to several factors. First, they recognized Assad as the last bastion against total religiousization of the state, which could have led to a loss of secular rights and freedoms. Second, secular Syrians saw Assad as the least corrupt option available, given the increasing corruption and instability among other factions.

Another group of secular Syrians, specifically Kurdish Syrians, did not initially support Assad. They criticized the regime for its failure to grant adequate rights to the Kurdish population, including the opening of Kurdish schools and the acceptance of the Kurdish language as an official language.

Support for the SDF

While many secular Arabs did not align with Assad, they did show support for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the northern regions of Syria. This support stemmed from a shared secular ideology. The SDF, primarily composed of Kurdish fighters, was seen as a more secular force compared to the Assad regime. Additionally, they provided an alternative to their communities that could oppose the Assad regime and still maintain secular values.

Critical Views from the Opposition

The opposition to Bashar al-Assad includes both political and military groups. While some in the opposition are secular, there is a general perception that a majority of Assad supporters among Syrians themselves claim to be secular. However, this label is often used to differentiate themselves from a perceived sectarian regime, rather than a true endorsement of secular principles.

Many opposition fighters and politicians in the opposition coalition are eager to establish a secular state without Assad's regime and its allies, such as Iran, Russia, and Shia fighters. The ongoing conflict has been brutal, with opposition groups witnessing mass-murder and starvation under government sieges. It is in such a context that religious slogans sometimes permeate their resistance, as is human nature during a desperate struggle.

Conclusion

The complex relationship between secularism and support for Assad in Syria reflects a deep-seated and multifaceted political landscape. While some secular Syrians have found themselves aligned with the Assad regime due to perceived threats to their freedom and against a more radicalized state, others remain opposed. The issue is nuanced and influenced by historical, social, and geopolitical factors.