Syrian Artisans’ Union Launches Support Initiatives for Returnees
The General Union of Artisans in Syria has unveiled a comprehensive package of programs and services designed to support artisans, with a particular focus on those who have returned to the country following years of displacement. This move is part of a national effort aimed at revitalizing professional activity and preserving traditional and heritage-based crafts.
Mohammad Khaled al-Turkmani, head of the Artisans’ Union for Damascus, its countryside, and Quneitra, stated that the Syrian craft sector has faced severe challenges in recent years. These difficulties have included the destruction of workshops, the loss of workplaces, declining financial liquidity, and gaps in professional experience and training caused by long periods of inactivity.
To overcome the obstacles facing returning artisans, the Union is collaborating with Islamic banks to provide innovative financing solutions. These facilities allow artisans to obtain loans through Sharia-compliant structures. A key feature of this initiative is the use of the “craft certificate” as sufficient collateral, eliminating the need for complex real estate or physical assets. This provides a significant boost to artisans who currently lack the capital necessary to reopen their workshops.
As part of its strategic vision for the reconstruction phase, the Union has begun establishing specialized vocational training centers. These centers are designed to upgrade artisan expertise and address the shortage of technical skills resulting from years of crisis, while also ensuring that artisans can keep pace with modern developments in various production sectors. Additionally, the Union has implemented procedural changes, such as simplifying membership processes and reducing fees for returning artisans. The Union is also coordinating with relevant authorities to address tax liabilities that had accumulated on workshops that were either inactive or destroyed during the conflict.
Regarding heritage crafts threatened with extinction—such as glass blowing, wood inlay, copper work, and handmade leather goods—al-Turkmani emphasized that the Union is prioritizing the revival of these professions. The organization has established a dedicated glass furnace as part of the Damascus International Fair activities and is currently organizing specialized training courses and conducting a comprehensive census of endangered crafts to ensure their protection. The Union aims to revitalize the traditional crafts market in Damascus, positioning it as a primary destination for displaying and marketing artisanal products while serving as an attraction for heritage enthusiasts. Al-Turkmani affirmed that the Union’s doors remain open to provide all forms of support and professional partnerships, enabling artisans to resume their activities and contribute effectively to the national economy.
Source: Syria Focus Arabic
