Governance in Daraa, southern Syria : the roles of military and civilian intermediaries

Abstract

In July 2018, the Syrian Arab Army launched a military campaign and restored territorial control over Daraa governorate after a subsequent Russian-brokered negotiation. Based on interviews with ex-rebels, 8th Brigade fighters and civilians, this study describes the recent developments in Daraa and investigates variations in the security situation and service provision across the regions of Daraa. It explores the impacts that the availability and effectiveness of civilian and military intermediaries have on service provision, security and interactions between the local population and government institutions.