‘The End of the ‘Revolution’ (al-thawra) but not Revolutionaries (thuwwār)’ : Insights from Syrian Fighters

Aldoughli, Rahaf (2024) ‘The End of the ‘Revolution’ (al-thawra) but not Revolutionaries (thuwwār)’ : Insights from Syrian Fighters. Conflict, Security and Development. ISSN 1467-8802

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Abstract

What drives individuals to join and remain loyal to armed groups amidst the chaos of the Syrian civil war? This article investigates this question by focusing on the Sham Front, offering a multi-level analysis that integrates external influences, group dynamics, and personal experiences. Based on extensive fieldwork in northern Syria and southern Turkey, including narratives from fighters, commanders, and local leaders, this study reveals how perceived emotional hardships and political uncertainties create distinct revolutionary subjectivities. By considering the macro-level influence of external actors, the meso-level group dynamics, and the micro-level motivations of individual fighters, this article provides a comprehensive understanding of the factors shaping fighters' behavior. Incorporating theories of uncertainty-identity and the politics of emotions, the article challenges simplistic narratives, revealing how shared emotional bonds and collective memories sustain loyalty and combat engagement. Unlike many existing studies, this research prioritizes the firsthand accounts of fighters, offering a deeper exploration of their motivations. This study bridges significant gaps in existing literature, showcasing how deep-seated emotional and social factors drive the resilience and persistence of fighters in the ongoing conflict.