After less than two weeks of fighting across Syria’s northwest, rebel groups have grabbed control of the capital Damascus, sending long-time dictator Bashar al-Assad fleeing to Russia with his family.

John McGarry, a professor in the Department of Political Studies and an internationally-recognized expert on ethnic conflict and nationalism, as well as conflict resolution, is available to speak on the latest developments as well as the difficult path forward for Syria and its people.

Dr. McGarry received the Pearson Peace Medal in 2022 for his outstanding contributions to peace and prosperity around the world. He is also the former Canada Research Chair in Nationalism and Democracy, an Officer of the Order of Canada, and has received numerous awards including the Killam Prize, Molson Prize, Trudeau Fellowship Prize, and numerous others.

To arrange an interview, please contact the Queen’s media team via email at andrew.carroll@queensu.ca or julie.brown@queensu.ca or mediarelations@queensu.ca.