Elections in Syria

Syria

This article is part of the series: Politics and government of Syria

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Elections in Syria gives information on election and election results in Syria.

Syria elects on national level a head of state - the president - and a legislature. The People's Council (Majlis al-Sha'ab) has 250 members elected for a four year term in 15 multi-seat constituencies, in which 167 seats are guaranteed for the National Progressive Front. Syria is a form of single-party state in which only one political party, the Arab Socialist Ba'ath Party is legally allowed to hold effective power. Although minor parties are allowed, they are legally required to accept the leadership of the dominant party and are member of the front. The presidential candidate is appointed by the parliament, on suggestion of the Baath Party, and needs to be confirmed for a seven year term in a national single-candidate referendum. The most recent presidential referendum took place in 2007.

During the French Mandate and after the independence the parliamentary elections in Syria have been held under a system similar to the Lebanese one, with fixed representation for every religious community, including Druzes, Alawis and Christians. In 1949 the system was modified, giving women the right to vote.

See also

• Electoral calendar
• Electoral system

External links

• IFES Election guide - Country profile: Syria