Rebuilding State Institutions after Conflict: A Case Study of Rwanda and the Potential Application in the Syrian Context
Executive Summary:
In post-conflict situations, states often face the acute collapse of their institutions, as was the case in Rwanda, where the genocide led to prolonged chaos and profound economic and social deterioration. This report examines Rwanda’s experience following the genocide to demonstrate that states can rise from the ashes of war if they adopt strategic institutional reforms.
After the genocide, the new Rwandan government was tasked with rebuilding the state from its foundations, despite the fact that most governmental institutions had been destroyed and there was an extreme shortage of qualified personnel—indeed, the Ministry of Finance was re-established with only seven staff members. To move forward, Rwanda relied on three main pillars:
- Strong leadership vision and measurable objectives: The government set precise targets, such as raising school enrollment to 95% within five years, which enhanced institutional effectiveness.
- Training and rehabilitation programs for human capital: Initiatives were launched to rehabilitate survivors and train young people, while also drawing on international expertise. Women played a prominent role in assuming leadership positions.
- Anti-corruption measures and the establishment of oversight institutions: A “zero tolerance” policy toward corruption was adopted, alongside the creation of oversight bodies such as the Ombudsman’s Office and the Auditor General, complemented by public awareness campaigns and community participation.
The report highlights that Rwanda’s measures were not limited to technical reforms; they also aimed at restoring a culture of trust between the state and society. This was achieved through the integration of former combatants based on merit rather than ethnic affiliation, thereby reorienting allegiance toward the nation-state.
With regard to lessons for Syria, the report emphasizes that Rwanda’s experience proves state reconstruction after conflict is not impossible. Rather, it requires a clear vision, institutional reforms, and societal mobilization.
The report further stresses that Syrians should rely on concrete tools such as capacity-building, transparent institutions, and anti-corruption mechanisms, while upholding a unifying national identity. The key recommendation advanced is the development of a Syrian institutional reform roadmap inspired by Rwanda’s experience: rebuilding institutions from the ground up through strategic planning, the inclusion of skilled professionals, and the assurance of continuous civilian oversight.
To read the full report click here (Arabic)
بكالوريوس في الترجمة ودبلوم إدارة أعمال، حاصلة على درجة الماجستير في العلاقات الدولية من جامعة kulture في تركيا، مهتمّة بالقضايا المجتمعية للسوريين في الداخل وفي تركيا.
