In brief
As the holy month of Ramadan draws near, many Syrians are confronting financial struggles that threaten the festival’s spirit, highlighting the economic instability in post-civil war Syria.
As Ramadan approaches, individuals across Syria are grappling with severe cash shortages and stringent withdrawal limits, significantly impacting their ability to prepare for the holy month. Amidst the bustling streets of Damascus, long queues are forming outside banks, where individuals wait for hours to withdraw roughly $15—just enough for basic essentials. "That can buy maybe a kilo and a half of meat," groused Sleiman Dawoud, a civil engineer, highlighting the stark reality many Syrians face. As new government policies arise following the ouster of the Assad regime, the economic landscape remains precarious ahead of Ramadan, typically a season marked by generosity and feasting.Withdrawal limits, now capped at 200,000 Syrian pounds, are stifling holiday shopping, making it increasingly difficult for families to furnish their homes for the holiday. Ra’if Ghnaim, a retired civil servant, expressed his dismay about maintaining celebration traditions for children. “How are we going to celebrate and give gifts to the children?” he questioned, echoing sentiments shared by many struggling to navigate the new economic conditions.The rebel coalition that has taken over governance in Damascus is implementing measures aimed at stabilizing the economy, but the effects are slow to materialize. As citizens count their pennies while preparing for a significant religious period, the contrast between the anticipation of Ramadan and the harsh financial realities has never been more evident. The emphasis on community and celebration is losing its vibrancy as basic needs become the priority. Meanwhile, skepticism over the new government's ability to alleviate these challenges lingers, leaving Syrians to confront yet another difficult Ramadan.
