The Impact of the “Syrian Conflict” as Seen in the Transformation of the Political Mental Map

This study investigates the transformation of the “political mental mapPolitical mental map” of Syrians before and after the Syrian Conflict by comparing two public opinion surveys conducted in 2007 and 2016. The 2007 survey, conducted in collaboration with the Orient Center for International Studies, reflectsSyria Syria’s status as a stable and influential regional power. The 2016 survey, following the Syrian Conflict, shows significant changes in Syrians’ perceptions due to foreign interventions. The analysis reveals that pro-Syrian countries like IranIran, RussiaRussia, and ChinaChina are perceived positively, while anti-Syrian countries like the US, UK, and Saudi ArabiaSaudi Arabia are viewed negatively. Shifts in perceptions of countries like TurkeyTurkey, EgyptEgypt, and IraqIraq underscore the dynamic nature of these views based on political developments. The findings highlight Syrians’ sensitive and accurate recognition of their political environment, influenced by both local and international dynamics.