Security Fears Overshadow Christmas Festivities in Damascus

This year Damascus experienced a subdued Christmas season, with traditional outdoor festivities and parades notably absent. While churches and homes were adorned with decorations, public celebrations were limited due to security concerns. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the Islamist group that recently assumed control over Syria, assured Christians of continued religious freedoms but recommended minimizing public gatherings until stability is fully restored.

Syria's Christian community, among the world's oldest, encompasses various denominations, including Greek Orthodox, Syriac Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic, and several Catholic and Protestant sects. Historically, Christians have coexisted peacefully with other religious and ethnic groups in the region. However, the civil war, which began in 2011, has profoundly impacted them. The Christian population has plummeted from approximately 1.5 million in 2011 to around 300,000 by 2022, primarily due to persecution by extremist groups and the broader impacts of the conflict.

Traditionally, Damascus's Christmas celebrations featured joyful parades led by scouts and city-wide festivities. This year, the absence of such events reflects the cautious approach adopted by the community amid the nation's ongoing transition and the uncertainties accompanying the new governance. Despite assurances from HTS leaders, incidents like the shooting at a Greek Orthodox church in Hama have heightened fears among Christians, leading to a more restrained observance of the holiday season.

#Damascus #Christmas #SyriaTransition

Produced by: Faten Jebai