Syria’s national cohesion depends on recognising the country as a nation in its own right and a shared homeland for all Syrians. Zedoun Al Zoubi argues that belonging must rest on equal citizenship, respect for diversity and participation in shaping the country’s future. He challenges narratives that subordinate Syrian nationhood to wider ideological projects, tracing the fragility of national identity to legacies predating Assad’s rule, including unease over the colonial origins of the modern Syrian state’s borders.

Syria’s Arab and Islamic cultural character can coexist with its multiple religious, ethnic and regional identities; attachment to local roots can strengthen national belonging. Drawing on experiences in Hauran, Germany and India, he challenges the assumption that cultural authenticity conflicts with modernity. Democratic values, scientific progress and gender equality can develop alongside inherited traditions, while practices that deny rights demand reform. Freedom entails responsibility, and political freedom and security must be guaranteed together. His solidarity with Palestine illustrates how national belonging can sustain commitments beyond Syria’s borders.

Equal citizenship requires protecting individual and collective rights without allowing communal practices to override personal freedoms. Political participation and public office should be accessible irrespective of gender or religion. Inclusive institutions, particularly the army and security services, must reflect society’s diversity. Such institutions also create encounters through which Syrians can challenge stereotypes, recognise one another’s humanity and rebuild trust.

Moderation, in this account, means resisting political camps’ claims to exclusive possession of truth. Engagement across liberal and conservative constituencies reveals shared commitments, while constructive support and opposition require acknowledging both sound policies and mistakes. Healing social divisions begins with recognising suffering across communities and historical periods, including abuses before and after Assad’s fall. Acknowledgement, remembrance and apology are ethical responsibilities; one community’s suffering neither erases another’s pain nor justifies further violence. Responsibility for wrongdoing cannot be assigned to entire communities.

Transitional justice must combine accountability with the wider task of repairing society and preventing renewed conflict. Al Zoubi advocates prioritising prosecutions of those most responsible, supporting institutions addressing missing persons and transitional justice, and rejecting private retaliation. Lasting peace requires capable, inclusive institutions and a stable legal framework.

Belonging has material foundations. Unequal development between regions, rural and urban areas, and rich and poor weakens attachment to the country. Balanced development, protected rights and meaningful participation are therefore essential to a Syrian identity that offers every citizen dignity, security and a stake in a shared future.