Syria’s civil war

Syria's protracted civil war is entering a new phase, marked by ongoing efforts to hold perpetrators accountable and the evolving role of civil society. A landmark trial is underway, charging Atef Najib, a cousin of former President Bashar al-Assad, with serious crimes including murder, torture, and responsibility for massacres. This trial signifies a crucial step in seeking justice for wartime atrocities. Concurrently, Syrian civil society organizations are navigating a complex post-Assad era. Figures like Bahjat Hajjar, who previously operated outside state control, are now working to support local administrations that provided essential services like bakeries, clinics, and schools in opposition-held areas. The current relevance lies in the dual focus on accountability for past actions and the resilience of civil society in rebuilding and governing communities amidst the war's enduring impact.