Syria

World Book Index

Introduction

Syria, a country steeped in history and cultural richness, has undergone significant transformations since the end of World War I. Originally part of the Ottoman Empire, it was placed under French mandate, which lasted until its independence in 1946. The subsequent unification with Egypt in 1958 to form the United Arab Republic marked a pivotal moment in its political landscape, although this union was short-lived, ending in 1961 with the reestablishment of the Syrian Arab Republic. Today, Syria's complex history continues to shape its national identity and geopolitical stance in the region.

Neighboring countries

Iraq - Israel - Jordan - Lebanon - Turkey

Geography

Area
Total: 187,437 sq km
Land: 185,887 sq km
Water: 1,550 sq km

Syria's geography is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes mountains, deserts, and coastal regions. The total area of 187,437 sq km encompasses a variety of terrains, with the majority being land (185,887 sq km) and a smaller portion consisting of water bodies (1,550 sq km). The climate is predominantly desert, featuring hot, dry summers from June to August and mild, rainy winters from December to February along the coast. In the interior, particularly in Damascus, cold weather with occasional snow or sleet can be experienced, adding to the country's climatic diversity. Syria is also endowed with significant natural resources, including petroleum, phosphates, chrome and manganese ores, asphalt, iron ore, rock salt, marble, gypsum, and hydropower, which play a crucial role in its economy and development.

People and Society

Population
Total: 23,865,423 (2024 estimated)

Syria's population is a tapestry of ethnic and religious diversity, with approximately 50% identifying as Arab, followed by Alawites (15%), Kurds (10%), and Levantines (10%). The remaining 15% includes various groups such as Druze, Ismaili, Imami, Nusairi, Assyrian, Turkoman, and Armenian communities. The official language is Arabic, but other languages such as Kurdish, Armenian, Aramaic, Circassian, French, and English are also spoken, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage. The predominant religion is Islam, comprising 87% of the population, which includes 74% Sunni Muslims and 13% from Alawi, Ismaili, and Shia sects. Christians make up about 10% of the population, while Druze account for 3%. The population growth rate is estimated at 1.67% for 2024, indicating a dynamic demographic landscape that influences social and economic policies.

Government

Government type
Presidential republic; highly authoritarian regime

Capital
Name: Damascus

The Syrian government operates as a presidential republic, characterized by a highly authoritarian regime that has faced significant challenges in recent years. The chief of state position is currently vacant following the overthrow of former President Bashar al-ASAD by Islamist rebels on 8 December 2024. ASAD and his family sought refuge in Moscow, where they were granted political asylum. The head of government is Prime Minister Muhammad al-BASHIR, who has been in office since the same date. The diplomatic representation from the United States remains limited, with the chief of mission position also vacant. The U.S. suspended operations at its embassy in Damascus on 6 February 2012, and Czechia now serves as a protecting power for U.S. interests in Syria.

Economy

Economic overview
Syria's economy is classified as a low-income Middle Eastern economy, severely impacted by an 11-year civil war that has devastated its infrastructure and economic stability. The country faces ongoing U.S. sanctions and has experienced sporadic trans-migration during the conflict, which has further complicated its economic recovery. Currently, the economy is being supported by a World Bank trust fund, but it is grappling with ongoing hyperinflation that exacerbates the challenges faced by its citizens.

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$98.858 billion (2023 estimated)
$100.066 billion (2022 estimated)
$99.338 billion (2021 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$4,200 (2023 estimated)
$4,500 (2022 estimated)
$4,600 (2021 estimated)

Exports
$1.609 billion (2022 estimated)
$2.227 billion (2021 estimated)
$1.649 billion (2020 estimated)

Exports - partners
Turkey 29%, Saudi Arabia 16%, Lebanon 10%, India 10%, UAE 5% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Olive oil, phosphates, spice seeds, cotton, tomatoes (2023)

Imports
$6.803 billion (2022 estimated)
$6.56 billion (2021 estimated)
$3.751 billion (2020 estimated)

Imports - partners
Turkey 49%, UAE 11%, China 8%, Egypt 7%, Lebanon 3% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Tobacco, plastics, wheat flours, plastic products, seed oils (2023)

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.564, ranking it 162nd out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 150th out of 158 countries tested with a score of 3.462. (more information)