With Ramadan on the horizon, Syrians are grappling with financial constraints due to withdrawal limits and economic instability post civil war.
Struggles in Syria as Ramadan Approaches Amid Economic Turmoil
Struggles in Syria as Ramadan Approaches Amid Economic Turmoil
Citizens face cash shortages and rising prices affecting holiday traditions
As Ramadan nears, the streets of Damascus bustle with residents preparing for the holy month, but the festive spirit is dampened by a severe cash shortage impacting families across Syria. Lines stretch outside banks as citizens wait for hours just to withdraw around $15, a far cry from the funds needed for traditional holiday celebrations.
Sleiman Dawoud, a 56-year-old civil engineer, expressed frustration as he stood in line, lamenting that the cash could buy only a small amount of meat, leaving little room for essentials like bread, vegetables, and fruits. “What about the bread, and vegetables and fruits? Ramadan is coming, and we need to spend,” he noted, reflecting the anxious sentiment shared by many.
Ra’if Ghnaim, a 75-year-old retired civil servant, echoed his concerns, worried about affording the customary gifts for children at the end of Ramadan. “How are we going to celebrate and give gifts to the children?” he asked, demonstrating the emotional toll of the current economic climate.
This year's Ramadan marks a pivotal time, falling just three months after the ousting of the Assad dictatorship, which had controlled Syria for over five decades. The new government, formed by a coalition of rebels, has implemented economic changes that have led to strict daily withdrawal limits, severely affecting citizens’ purchasing power during this traditionally celebratory period.
The challenges during Ramadan highlight the ongoing struggles faced by everyday Syrians as they navigate a landscape of financial instability while trying to uphold the cherished traditions of their culture.
Sleiman Dawoud, a 56-year-old civil engineer, expressed frustration as he stood in line, lamenting that the cash could buy only a small amount of meat, leaving little room for essentials like bread, vegetables, and fruits. “What about the bread, and vegetables and fruits? Ramadan is coming, and we need to spend,” he noted, reflecting the anxious sentiment shared by many.
Ra’if Ghnaim, a 75-year-old retired civil servant, echoed his concerns, worried about affording the customary gifts for children at the end of Ramadan. “How are we going to celebrate and give gifts to the children?” he asked, demonstrating the emotional toll of the current economic climate.
This year's Ramadan marks a pivotal time, falling just three months after the ousting of the Assad dictatorship, which had controlled Syria for over five decades. The new government, formed by a coalition of rebels, has implemented economic changes that have led to strict daily withdrawal limits, severely affecting citizens’ purchasing power during this traditionally celebratory period.
The challenges during Ramadan highlight the ongoing struggles faced by everyday Syrians as they navigate a landscape of financial instability while trying to uphold the cherished traditions of their culture.
