Syria is set to hold its first parliamentary elections since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024. The elections are scheduled to take place between September 15 and 20, 2025, marking a significant step in the country's political transition.
The People's Assembly will consist of 210 seats, an increase from the previous 150. One-third of these seats will be appointed by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, while the remaining two-thirds will be filled through elections conducted by provincial electoral colleges. This approach aims to ensure broad representation, including in areas outside government control, such as Kurdish-held regions in northern Syria and the Druze-majority province of Sweida. The government has pledged to allow foreign observers to monitor the electoral process to ensure transparency.
The new assembly is expected to play a crucial role in initiating democratic reforms and approving legislation aimed at overhauling decades of state-controlled economic policies. However, critics have raised concerns about the lack of sufficient participation from minority groups and the concentration of power among the country's Islamist-led leadership. A temporary constitution signed by President al-Sharaa in March 2025 enshrines Islamic law as the primary source of legislation and establishes a five-year transition period during which a permanent constitution is to be drafted.
As Syria prepares for these historic elections, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and transparency in the electoral process to support the country's path toward stability and democratic governance.