Syria is set to conduct its first parliamentary elections since the fall of its autocratic leader, Bashar Assad. Despite the political shift, the current electoral process suggests limited democratic progression.

The elections will fill 140 seats through district-based electoral colleges, while interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa will directly appoint another 70. The absence of a popular vote has drawn criticism, attributed by authorities to logistical challenges amid war-induced displacement.

Representation concerns persist, especially regarding women and minorities, with only 14% of candidates being female and significant regions like Sweida remaining unrepresented. Critics argue that these factors, alongside electoral procedural flaws, question the true democratic intent of this electio

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