Damascus (Agencies): The Freemasons are set to re-establish their presence in Syria after a ban lasting over five decades under the Assad regime. A statement attributed to the Supreme Council of the Grand Syrian Orient Lodges declared the organization’s return, following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024.
The Assad regime, which had banned Freemasonry in 1965 under the presidency of Amin al-Hafiz, labeled it an “illegal secret society,” associating it with Western influence and Zionist agendas. The prohibition reflected broader regional skepticism toward the secretive fraternal organization.
Freemasonry is a centuries-old organization with a global presence, often described as a society with secret rituals and traditions. Its roots trace back to medieval stonemasons’ guilds in Europe. Today, it operates as a network of lodges dedicated to charitable work, moral philosophy, and the promotion of brotherhood. While Freemasonry has been credited with fostering philanthropy and intellectual discourse, it has also been the subject of numerous conspiracy theories, including allegations of covert political and economic influence. Some religious groups have accused it of contradicting traditional beliefs, further fueling its controversial reputation.
In its statement, the Supreme Council of the Grand Syrian Orient Lodges expressed optimism about the group’s role in Syria’s reconstruction. “The sun of freedom shines on our homeland, marking the beginning of a new era of civil and intellectual freedoms,” it stated. The organization emphasized its non-political nature, focusing on promoting “tolerance, brotherhood, cultural openness, education, and charitable work.”
The return of Freemasonry to Syria coincides with a period of political and social upheaval. The Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which overthrew Assad’s regime, has promised governance reforms while seeking to dismantle Assad-era socialist policies and attract foreign investment.
While the re-emergence of Freemasonry signals a shift toward civil liberties, it is not without challenges. The organization’s controversial history, coupled with the religious and political sensitivities of the new Islamist-led administration, makes its reintegration into Syrian society a complex and delicate process.
Supporters of the Freemasons see their return as a positive step toward fostering intellectual growth and social development in post-conflict Syria. However, critics remain wary of the group’s perceived secrecy and alleged associations with globalist agendas. As Syria navigates a transformative era, the Freemasons’ role in its reconstruction and societal evolution will be closely observed.