The presentation "History of Decentralization in Syria" provides an overview of the evolution of decentralization in Syria. It traces the historical journey from the Ottoman era to the modern Syrian state, examining key legal and constitutional developments.  The presentation reviews the different constitutional, legal and administrative frameworks as well as the evolution of the nomenclature used to define the scope of local governance and the relationship between the center and the periphery.  

The presentation details the early Ottoman laws on municipalities and state administration, the impact of external factors like international recognition and foreign interventions, and internal dynamics such as demographic balance and resource distribution.

Mr. Hallaj then progresses through various periods, highlighting significant events and legal frameworks that shaped Syria's territorial and political structure. These include the Damascus Declaration of 1919, the 1920 Syrian State Proclamation, and the drafting of constitutions in different eras. It also covers French intervention, the mandate system, the definition of Syrian territorial boundaries, and the creation of the Syrian Federation in the early 20th century.

Mr. Hallaj delves into the post-independence period, discussing the role of local and central authorities, changes in administrative laws, and the influence of different political and military leaders on decentralization processes. He concludes with an analysis of the most recent developments in local administration and decentralization in Syria, particularly focusing on the legal frameworks and administrative structures that have emerged in response to the country's evolving political and social landscape.