December 8 marks one year since the end of Bashar al-Assad's 24-year presidency in Syria, concluding a 13-year civil conflict in the country.
On December 8, 2024, Assad resigned as Syria's president and relocated to Russia. This event constituted a significant political development in the Middle East.
Twelve months following this transition, the country continues to navigate the social and political consequences of the conflict.
Syria's interim government has articulated a commitment to protecting all its citizens, including the majority Sunni Muslim population and minority groups. However, reports indicate that hundreds of individuals from the Alawite and Druze minorities have been killed in sectarian attacks, some reportedly involving members of government forces.
BBC Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega is currently reporting from Damascus, Syria's capital, on the changes experienced by Syrian residents since the transition.