The mission of the Syrian Law Journal (SLJ) is to introduce Syrian law to a wide variety of English speakers by serving as a legal resource unit. The idea behind a database of this nature goes back to the summer of 2010 at a time when a promising future looked within reach for Syria, its people and its business community. While events unfolded tragically in the following years, the commitment to this project remained unwavering.
The SLJ presents an introduction to the Syrian legal system, important country facts, a brief history of Syria, significant details regarding the numerous governments in office since 1918, fine points of key legislation, continuous updates taking place in the law and an assortment of articles. In doing so, the SLJ’s goal is to become the central database for all matters pertaining to Syrian law. We aim to keep our readers regularly informed of all the pivotal developments taking place in this field.
The world has become accustomed to associating Syria with the brutal effects of conflict and humanitarian disasters that have devastated all Syrians. This single impression alone does no service to such a country that has a rich heritage and history behind it and a proud people that has been at the forefront of human civilization. Throughout the 20th century, Syrians established a secular, civil legal system based on the models of continental Europe and enacted legislation in a range of sectors to reflect international standards. For any individual interested in Syria, these are crucial facts which the SLJ seeks to convey.
It is also essential to bear in mind that the purpose of the SLJ is of a strictly legal nature. While it makes references to economic policies introduced by several governments throughout history, it is not interested in touching on political affairs. The latter is the subject of other resources while the SLJ is mainly concerned with the principles of the Syrian legal system and the law as it stands. While the SLJ makes mention of political figures or events, it is merely to provide a contextual basis to the relevant laws that were enacted at the time.
Despite the fact that Syria is in a current state of conflict, there is little purpose in delaying the launch of this unique database since it is the law that is the main concern of the SLJ. Even during the unrest, legislation has continued to be enacted, repealed and amended and major draft laws are presently being discussed with an eye towards the future. While it is difficult to contemplate reconstruction moving forward in the foreseeable future, it will nevertheless be an inevitable phase in post-conflict Syria. The SLJ seeks to keep its followers updated on these critical facts, which will no doubt be of significant interest to many. In doing so, the SLJ sincerely hopes to meet the expectations of its readers.