Goethe Institiut im Exil: Syria: Quo Vadis? Talking event | Freedom, Home, Prison, Exile and The World
DI 18.2, 19H ACUD Galerie
free entrance
The opening event of our new series "Syria: Quo Vadis?" on January 23 focused on the question of how personal emotions can be understood in light of the changing political situation. How can the inner turmoil following the fall of the Assad regime, with its waves of hopes, fears, tensions—and memories—be processed, both personally and collectively? What challenges, perspectives, and visions for the future are occupying Syrian artists and cultural workers in light of current developments?
Building on this intense discussion, our guests on February 18 will reflect on the condition of exile in the context of lost and possibly regained homelands, exploring freedom, reconciliation, and new beginnings.
Concert
19:00 – 19:15 | Milad Khawam (Trumpet)
19:15 – 19:30 | "Syria: A Cartography of Political Power Relations"
Input Talk – Yasmin Merei
Syria’s political landscape has been shaped for years by conflicts, power shifts, and regional spheres of influence. In this brief presentation, Yasmin Merei will provide a cartographic guide to better understand the current political divisions and power relations in Syria. The aim is to create a solid foundation of knowledge that will allow a more nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics within the country.
19:30 – 20:45 | "Eternity is Over, the Presence Begins Now"
Reading and Discussion
With Najat Abed Alsamad, Yassin al-Haj Saleh & Nisren Habib
Moderation: Yasmin Merei
Whether from the perspective of prose, poetry, or research, a special focus of the evening will be on the recent travels of our guests to Syria, their first visit in many years. What significance do these new impressions have for their writing and themes? Our guests will not only share their reflections and insights on the current situation, but also discuss how literature and research can contribute to the country’s reconstruction.
Writer Yassin al-Haj Saleh, one of the most significant voices of the Syrian opposition, has endured the harsh realities of imprisonment, resistance, and exile like few others. His unwavering commitment to a free Syrian society is reflected in his writing—the documentary "Our Terrible Country" (2014) offers a powerful portrayal of his journey. But what do the current developments mean for his work and perspective?
Feminist researcher Nisren Habib explores the significance of documenting Syrians' experiences and memories through feminist research methodologies as a tool for justice. What is the importance of continuing this process after the fall of the Syrian regime? And what would this mean for Women Now today, especially those considering a return to Syria? Does their new reality align with the Syria of today?
The writer and gynecologist Najat Abed Alsamad also focuses on the role of women in Syria—especially in the context of the massive violence and destruction caused by the war. How does this alter entire family structures? And what impact will this have in light of the ongoing transformation?
The discussion will be moderated by journalist and literary scholar Yasmin Merei.
Closing Concert
20:45 – 21:00 | Milad Khawam