Publication

This article discusses the difficulties faced by the Syrian National Council (SNC), in its attempts to act as a focal point for the disparate groups which make up the opposition to the Assad regime. The author argues that pressure from Western states on the SNC to widen its base and become more inclusive has undermined the Council's credibility and efforts. He concludes by advocating the empowerment of local authorities inside a “liberated” Syria, and support for a federating partner that would then be able to facilitate the long-expected transition of power after the fall of Assad.