Analysis
Is it Winter or Spring for Christians in Syria?
By Doreen Khoury
In recent months, there has been much debate on the future of minority Christians sects in the Arab world following the popular uprisings. The Maspero tragedy in Egypt, during which Coptic Christians were attacked and killed by the army, and the resurgence of Islamic parties in the region has led many Christians, especially in Syria and Lebanon, to question whether they will survive the Arab Spring. Many have also questioned the wisdom of regime change in Syria, arguing that the downfall of the Assad regime, long perceived as a protector of minorities, threatens the existence of Christians. But the question is to what extent is the Arab world hostile to Christians? And how wise is it for them to support the Assad regime?

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About the Author
Doreen Khoury is program manager at Heinrich Böll Stiftung, Beirut. She formerly worked as senior researcher and elections specialist at the Lebanese Centre for Policy Studies from 2006 till 2008 and served as executive director of LADE from 2004 till 2006. She specializes in elections, governance and anti-corruption issues. She has a B.A. in Political Studies from the American University of Beirut and an M.A. in International Affairs from the Lebanese American University.
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