Syrian officials, civil society groups and international representatives gathered in Damascus on Saturday for a government–EU sponsored “Dialogue Day with Syrian Civil Society” holding a series of open discussions on transitional justice, youth empowerment and the country’s shift from humanitarian aid to long-term recovery.
The event, held at the Conference Palace, is part of ongoing cooperation between the Syrian government and the European Union under the annual Brussels Conference on Syria.
The opening session focused on transitional justice and the thousands of Syrians who remain missing after years of conflict. Mohammad Reda Jalkhi, head of the National Commission for the Missing, called the issue one of the country’s most complex humanitarian challenges and urged an approach that links efforts to resolve missing persons cases with broader reconciliation measures.
Another session looked at youth empowerment. Saad al-Din Mouqat, who leads the HAND education and vocational training organization, said education reforms are needed to equip young Syrians with skills that can open economic opportunities, and he called for stronger support for youth-led social and political initiatives.
Civil society’s role in protecting civic space was also discussed. Ahmad Moussa al-Hashloum, director of the Enmaa organization, said community groups face significant obstacles and called for stronger legal safeguards and clearer strategies to support their work.
A panel on governance highlighted the need for transparency and citizen participation in rebuilding public institutions. Rana Sheikh Ali, director of the Dara Salam initiative, stressed including historically marginalized groups in decision-making.
Other speakers discussed social cohesion and economic recovery. Samer Aswad, co-founder of Afkar Plus, said small businesses and youth entrepreneurship could help rebuild ties between communities fractured by the conflict.
A final session examined Syria’s transition from humanitarian aid to sustainable recovery. Hiba Ez al-Din, executive director of the Equality and Empowerment organization, said long-term stability depends on job creation and greater engagement from the private sector, with policies that support women and people with disabilities.
The meeting concluded with participants presenting recommendations to representatives of U.N. agencies, Syrian civil society groups and human rights advocates.
“Dialogue Day with Syrian Civil Society” provides an interactive platform for civil society to exchange expertise and help shape the policies guiding international support for Syria.
