In a groundbreaking event, representatives of Syria’s civil society convened in Damascus on Saturday for open discussions, facilitated by the European Union and the transitional government. This marked the first time such dialogues, previously held in Brussels, took place within Syria. The discussions addressed critical issues including sectarian tensions, ethnic divisions, and the casualties from various conflicts. The event, titled “The Day of Dialogue,” signifies a pivotal moment nearly a year after the fall of the 54-year Assad family rule, which was overthrown by insurgent groups in December. Historically, these meetings were boycotted by Bashar Assad’s government, but the current transitional authorities and civil society actively participated this time. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani emphasized the significance of hosting these talks in Syria, stating, “The meeting that used to be held to talk about Syria is now being held in Syria.” He highlighted the solid partnership between Syria’s civil society and the EU. Michael Ohnmacht, the EU delegation’s chargé d’affaires, noted the participation of 500 individuals from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds, calling it a positive step toward an inclusive future for Syria. Despite these advancements, Syria continues to grapple with sectarian violence, as seen in recent clashes in the coastal region and Sweida province, which resulted in hundreds of deaths. These incidents underscore the ongoing challenges in a 14-year conflict that has claimed half a million lives. Social Affairs Minister Hind Kabawat stressed that the dialogue marks the beginning of change and rebuilding, emphasizing the importance of partnership between the state and civil society. During sessions on transitional justice and the fate of the missing, Syrians demanded answers on unresolved issues, including the disappearance of over 130,000 people under Assad’s rule. Ethnic minorities, such as Kurds, shared experiences of decades-long state discrimination, while others highlighted violence against women from minority sects. Mazen Darwish, a prominent Syrian activist, acknowledged the end of Assad’s rule but cautioned against assuming a smooth future, urging Syrians to seize the current opportunity for change.