Syria Under Bashar Al-asad: Modernisation And The Limits Of Change Adelphi Series

The article discusses the changes that have occurred in Syria since Bashar al-Asad took over as leader in 2000. While there were hopes for political opening, the author argues that the new president has not lived up to these expectations. The article also examines the economic and political factors driving change in Syria and provides a portrait of the country's new leadership.

Syria entered a new phase with the death of its long-serving leader, Hafiz al-Asad, and the accession of his son Bashar in 2000. While the new president has disappointed much of the hopes for political opening which he himself has created, Syria is clearly undergoing a process of change.The author analyses the factors of economic and political change in the country, and gives a portrait of its new leadership.