Damascus Alcohol Ban Sparks Fears Over Restrictions on Personal Freedoms

Last week, the Damascus Governorate issued a ban on serving alcoholic drinks in Damascus, triggering protests and widespread concern over what many perceive as an attempt to restrict personal freedoms and impose new forms of social control. The decision has generated concerns about  governance, diversity, and the future social fabric of Syria, in addition to the economic impact it will have on the alcoholic beverages sector and the tourism industry.