From rebel rule to a post-capitulation era in Daraa Southern Syria : the impacts and outcomes of rebel behaviour during negotiations

Abstract

In June 2018, the Syrian Arab Army launched a military campaign that aimed at ending rebel rule and restoring territorial control over Daraa and Quneitra governorates southern Syria. This research presents a wide-range of developments that occurred in Daraa governorate after a Russian-brokered agreement that ended rebel rule. Based on exclusive interviews with senior ex-rebel and civilian actors, this study investigates how rebel leaders’ behaviour at the negotiating table shaped Russia’s level of commitment towards each former rebel leader as well as former rebels and civilians of their localities in the postsurrender era. Finally, this research identifies the main territorial configurations in Daraa governorate as well as the main challenges facing local institutions and service provision after the resurgence of state rule.