Events
Trump, Tribes and Transformations: Redefining Power Dynamics in Northeast Syria in the Post-Assad Era

Syria stands on the brink of a potential new era, with power struggles and shifting alliances reshaping the country’s trajectory. With the fall of the Assad regime, the question of what kind of Syria will emerge has become a topic of intense speculation. From regional powers to global actors, everyone is closely watching while simultaneously attempting to influence the country’s internal balance and future governance structures.
The dynamics in Northeast Syria (NE Syria) have become increasingly critical in this context. The relationships between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), YPG leadership, and Arab tribal groups are rapidly evolving. Meanwhile, the Trump administration's anticipated policy shifts are expected to redefine U.S. involvement in the region, with potentially transformative effects on these dynamics.
This panel will delve into these critical issues, exploring the roles of local and regional actors in shaping the new Syrian landscape: How will the Al-Sharaa government navigate the power vacuum and manage these shifting dynamics? Who are the actors on the ground, and what role do Arab tribes, for instance, play in consolidating the new government? What agendas are they pursuing? How will the United States, under Trump’s leadership, recalibrate its strategies in response to these changes?
Our panelist, Prof. Carole O'Leary, who has closely observed the goals and guiding principles of U.S. policies toward Iraq and Syria for over 20 years, brings extensive expertise to the discussion. With a proven track record of implementing projects focused on Kurdish groups and tribal dynamics in both Syria and Iraq, she will provide in-depth insights into the implications of HTS’s rise, the ongoing transformations in NE Syria, and the regional and global forces shaping the country’s future.
Join us for a timely and thought-provoking discussion on Syria’s new reality and the opportunities and challenges it presents for local, regional, and international actors.
Speakers:
Professor Carole O’Leary
Carole O'Leary is a senior advisor at the Prime-Policy Group in Washington, DC, and co-director with Professor Robert Destro of the MENA region cultural mapping project at the Catholic University of America, School of Law.
Carina is a Researcher at bicc. Her regional focus is on the Middle East with an interest in minority populations, so far specifically the Kurdish and Yazidi minorities.
Moderation:
Osman is a Senior Researcher at bicc. He has focused his research on Middle Eastern politics with particular reference to the state, violent and non-violent non-state actors, social and political movements, democratisation.
Event Details
06 February, 14:00 – 15:30.
https://eu01web.zoom.us/j/61376541399
Meeting-ID: 613 7654 1399
Passcode: 241288