State-Civil society Relations in Syria

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Examining the EU's good governance policies, this study highlights the role of civil society in promoting development and political accountability. It critiques the European Neighbourhood Policy's effectiveness, particularly in southern neighboring countries like Syria, where authoritarianism has historically dominated. The analysis argues that the EU's approach is based on flawed assumptions about civil society's nature and its relationship with the state. By using Syria as a case study, it reveals the oversimplified and normative view the EU holds regarding civil society in authoritarian contexts.