Basic System of Government in Syria

Syria functions as a republic with a centralized political structure defined by its constitution. The country’s governance framework outlines the role of the President, the formation of the government, and the responsibilities of various executive and legislative bodies. The following overview explains the main components of Syria’s governmental system, offering a clear understanding of how authority is organized and exercised.

The President

The President of the Syrian Arab Republic is the head of state and holds significant executive authority. The presidency is the most influential position within Syria’s political system, combining political, military, and administrative leadership.

Requirements to Hold Office

To qualify for the presidency in Syria, a candidate must meet specific constitutional criteria, including:
  • Being at least 40 years old
  • Holding Syrian nationality by birth
  • Having Syrian parents
  • Enjoying full civil and political rights
  • Being a resident of Syria for a required number of years before the election
  • Receiving endorsements from members of the parliament to enter the electoral race
These requirements are designed to ensure loyalty, national affiliation, and political stability.

Powers of the President

The President’s powers are extensive and include:
  • Appointing the Prime Minister, Vice Presidents, and members of the Council of Ministers
  • Defining general state policies and overseeing their implementation
  • Serving as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces
  • Issuing decrees and laws, especially when the Parliament is not in session
  • Dissolving the People’s Assembly (Parliament) under certain constitutional conditions
  • Overseeing foreign policy, including signing treaties and managing international relations
These powers grant the President broad authority in legislative, military, and administrative matters.

The Council of Ministers (Cabinet)

The Council of Ministers is the central executive body responsible for carrying out government policies and managing public affairs. It is led by the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the President.

Key Functions of the Cabinet
  • Implementing state policies and programs
  • Managing government ministries and public institutions
  • Proposing draft laws and regulations
  • Supervising the state budget and development plans
  • Ensuring the enforcement of laws and regulations across all sectors
The Cabinet plays a major role in day-to-day governance while remaining accountable to both the President and the legislative body.

Syrian National Council

The Syrian National Council—distinct from the People’s Assembly—is a consultative body intended to support national unity and political dialogue. Its purpose includes:

  • Offering recommendations on national matters
  • Participating in discussions related to national reconciliation
  • Encouraging political pluralism and consultation
This council does not possess legislative authority but contributes to broader political engagement and representation.

Ministries

Syria’s government is composed of various ministries, each responsible for a specific national sector. Typical ministries include:

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • Ministry of Defense
  • Ministry of Education
  • Ministry of Health
  • Ministry of Interior
  • Ministry of Economy and Foreign Trade
Roles of the Ministries

  • Implementing government policies within their respective sectors
  • Drafting regulations and administrative procedures
  • Coordinating national development programs
  • Managing public services and state institutions
The ministries work under the guidance of the Council of Ministers to ensure the smooth functioning of the government across all fields.