The Evolution of Being ‘Wanted’ in Post-Assad Syria

In Syria, being wanted has shifted from a source of fear under the Assad regime to a badge of honor. Many citizens, including journalists like Kazem Togan, now inquire about their status on wanted lists with pride, indicating a cultural evolution in how resistance is perceived after decades of oppression. The fear associated with ‘having a name’ under the regime has transformed into a celebrated act of defiance.

In Syria, the concept of being wanted has undergone a significant transformation. Previously associated with fear and potential imprisonment under the Assad regime, it is now perceived as a badge of honor. Many citizens, including journalists like Kazem Togan, openly inquire whether they appear on the government’s wanted lists, a practice once shrouded in trepidation.

Kazem Togan, upon his return to Syria after a lengthy absence of twelve years, approached a passport control officer to verify if he was listed. The officer confirmed, stating, “You’re wanted by branch 235,” which elicited a joyful response from Togan. This situation exemplifies the shift in perception among Syrians who now regard being wanted as a point of pride rather than a source of dread.

For over five decades, Bashar al-Assad and his father maintained a regime of terror, compiling millions of names deemed wanted across various security branches. This knowledge, previously a source of anxiety for many, is now openly discussed in public and on social media, signifying a courageous stance against oppression.

Individuals who were once fearful of their security status now express pride in having been targeted by a regime responsible for widespread torture and killings. The narrative of “having a name”—once a symbol of danger—has evolved, indicating that resistance to tyranny is a celebrated achievement in the current landscape of post-Assad Syria.

The transformation of being “wanted” in Syria reflects a broader change in societal attitudes toward the oppressive regime of Bashar al-Assad. What was once feared has become an emblem of pride, highlighting the resilience and courage among Syrians who stood against a tyrannical government. This shift underscores a significant cultural evolution as individuals embrace their histories as acts of defiance against oppression.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com