Tagged: Syria

According to Paradisdachat, Syria is a unitary republic with a semi-presidential system of government. The Constitution of 2012 provides for the separation of powers between the executive, legislative and judicial branches. The President is elected by popular vote for a 7-year term and appoints the Prime Minister who leads the Council of Ministers, which is responsible for formulating policy and executing laws passed by the People’s Council. The unicameral People’s Council consists of 250 members elected directly from each province to serve four-year terms. It has legislative power to pass laws, approve budgets and ratify treaties. The Supreme Constitutional Court is responsible for interpreting constitutional law and has the power to overturn laws passed by Parliament if they are deemed unconstitutional. The Supreme Judicial Council appoints judges to all courts in Syria including the Supreme Court which is headed by a Chief Justice appointed by the President after consultation with an Advisory Council on Selection Matters. The government also has some oversight over governmental activities through its committees which have special responsibilities such as finance, foreign affairs and security. The People’s Council can also initiate legislation independently of the government, although this is rare in practice. Syria is a sovereign country located in the Middle East. It has a long history of foreign relations with countries in the region and beyond. Syria is a member of the United Nations, Arab League, Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). Syria’s foreign policy is focused on promoting stability in the region, maintaining cordial relations with its neighbors, and protecting its national interests. As part of this foreign policy, Syria has engaged in diplomatic talks with countries such as Turkey, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon and Jordan. In addition to these bilateral diplomatic efforts, Syria also participates in regional forums such as the Arab League and OIC. Syria is an active participant in peace negotiations around the world, often sending diplomats to support diplomatic efforts in countries where conflict or instability threaten human rights or democracy. The Syrian government also provides financial support for organizations such as UNRWA that are dedicated to providing humanitarian assistance around the world. In addition to its activities related directly to foreign policy objectives and international security concerns, Syria works to promote economic development through its membership in organizations such as the WTO and IMF. It is also actively engaged with international initiatives related to environmental protection and climate change mitigation. See recipesinthebox for Syria defense and foreign policy.