Syria's Year Of Discontent
Where is Syria?
Let’s step back. We’ve seen the Arab Spring uprisings in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and Bahrain. Today, we focus on Syria. This country of about 22 million people lies in the Middle-East, surrounded by Lebanon and the Mediterranean Sea, Iraq, Turkey and Israel. Predominantly a Muslim country with various sects – Sunni being the majority, 10% of its population is Christian. Its President: Bashar al-Assad, however, is as unpopular as they come.
The Syrian uprising
Syria is not a new revolution. It started at the same time – 26th January, as other Arab uprisings. And neither has it been a peaceful one. The Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has clamped down on the protesters in a violent manner and there has been much bloodshed. The faction that is loyal to the President has been accused of atrocities on the ground, including looting and killing.
There is a widespread theory that the US is backing a regime change in Syria and pressure from the White House might be the reason for the latest stand taken by the Arab League. Nineteen member countries voted for the suspension of Syria if the crackdown on the protesters was not stopped. Only Lebanon and Yemen objected to it, while Iraq abstained (held back from) voting.
Next steps
The Arab League also urged its member countries to call back their ambassadors from the Syrian capital – Damascus. They have called all Syrian opposition parties for a meeting at the Arab League Headquarters to decide on a course of action during the interim or transitional period. This is assuming the President steps down.
Meanwhile, the violence continues on the streets of Syrian cities. This is an unfolding story. We will be tracking it here on Youngzine – stay tuned, and watch this space for updates.
Here is a video about the Arab League decision:
They probably will be okay because god says on our books that all bad people will die!
not all bad ppl EVERYONE!!!
I'm from Syria!!!!!! WE NEED FREEDOM!!!!!!! I dont like BASHAR ALASAD! Oh and ALASAD means lion whack isn't his real last name!
I believe that Syria will get more protesters and they will soon have to face more problems. They are doing something that will change their religon. the Syrian government will want to do as the league says or they they will have more problems.
when did this happen
Like two years ago! I am from Syria I know!
Why so much violence!!!
The population in Syria is huge and I hope they're okay.
yes gelzine.
Why can't Africa/Middle East have a stable government? maybe they should treat the ARAB League like the EU, which worked for Europe.
The EU is a mess. So it the UN. Did you know, that the EU recently put out a paper saying that water is not the cause of dehydration? Isn't that just crazy?!
The Arab League is making a big move there. It is vital for Syria to remain in the Arab league. When Egypt was booted out under Sadat, Egypt were in a desperate financial and political situation. The Syrian government will want to do as the League says.
More revolutions!!! We all saw them coming.