Ninety-six (96) local, regional, and international organizations and entities (prime actors) were identified by their peers as influential in the life of Syria. In the chart below, the left column ranks the prime actors from most influential in shaping the life in Syria (Russia) to the least influential (Relief International).

The chart also shows the classification of prime actors into five stances indicating the actor's support and contribution to inclusive nationalism for Syria, starting from the most committed (Core) to the least committed (Saboteur).

Amount of influence of the Shia in the life of Syria, and their commitment to inclusive nationalism for Syria.

25 prime actors participated in the following:

  • Determining the rank of the Shia according to the amount of their influence on life in Syria. As shown in the chart below, the Shia ranked 36th most influential prime actor.
  • Assessing and classifying the Shia according to their commitment to inclusive nationalism for Syria (also indicated in the same row by the colored rectangle). Of the 25 prime actors who participated in the assessments, more agreed that the Shia falls under the category of 'Builder & Solver'. A prime actor assessed as Builder & Solver is seen as wholly committed to inclusive nationalism for Syria. This is their mission for Syria.
Syria R3 PA Shia x.jpg

In response to the question, “How are the Shia important in the life of Syria?” 


Round 3 participants stated (Nov. 2016 - Jul. 2017):

"They aren't taking over the country since the Alawi are Shia.” (238631)


Round 2 participants stated (Aug. 2016 - Oct. 2017):

“Iraqi-style Shia do not exist in Syria.” (221641)

“They represent a minimal percentage of the Syrian population in besieged areas, 2 streets in Damascus, and Homs. They're different from the Shia in Iran, but the regime convinced them they are alike and should support the regime. Now they are the same.” (220291)

“Shia are not even close to 5% of the population. Iran has been trying to boost their influence in Syria since 2003. It increased dramatically since war began. In 2005 Syria signed an agreement of mutual support with Iran. Iran has spent a lot of money recruiting people to Shia.” (223881)

“They are taking over the country.” (221211)

“The Shia have no influence now nor will they in 10 years.” (221641