Syria: Parliamentary elections held on July 19

Event

Syrian parliamentary elections are being held in government-controlled areas across the country, on Sunday, July 19. President Bashar al-Assad's Baath party is expected to win a majority of seats, with the political opposition expected to boycott the election. The election was initially scheduled for April but was postponed due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

On Saturday, July 18, the eve of the poll, two explosions were reported in Damascus, with one person killed and another injured in the blasts. Anti-government groups may attempt to target polling stations or symbols of government authority. A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are to be expected in Syria while polls are open.  

Advice

Individuals in Syria should avoid crowded areas and the vicinity of polling stations while elections are underway.

Due to extremely poor security conditions, Western governments generally advise against all travel to Syria, with some banning travel to the country. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to any travel to Syria.