Syria Hackathon: Youth Innovation in Facing the Challenges of Reconstruction and Development

On the 22nd of February 2025, an exceptional event titled "Syria Hackathon" brought together Syrian youth inside the country and abroad to propose and develop innovative solutions for the most pressing challenges in post-revolution Syria. The hackathon witnessed the participation of around 5500 individuals from various Syrian provinces, as well as participants from 44 countries, reflecting global interest in enhancing recovery and development efforts in Syria. The event was organized by approximately 50 supervisors and 70 committee members, selecting 350 entrepreneurial projects to work on during the event until the 26th of February. "Syria Hackathon" combines online collaboration through the "Discord" platform and physical attendance at local centers in Syria to provide an interactive environment for immediate exchange of experiences and knowledge. The hybrid nature of virtual work and face-to-face meetings ensures broader participation and deeper interaction, especially given the country's circumstances and challenges in recent years. The work areas at the hackathon are divided into six main axes, including infrastructure and public services, education and skills development, healthcare and medical access, economic opportunities and employment, food security and agriculture, as well as peace and social cohesion. Participants collaborate with NGOs, entrepreneurs, and community leaders to root solutions in Syrian realities, with the potential for adoption and development post-hackathon. The hackathon will conclude with a final presentation day where the most prominent ideas and projects will be showcased to a judging committee comprising Syrian and international experts and entrepreneurs. Winning projects will receive logistical support and necessary funding to continue their development and implementation, potentially marking a significant step towards economic and social reconstruction. Supported by the community initiative "Startup Syria" established in 2013 to support Syrian entrepreneurs and startups, the event is organized by Ahmed Sufian Beiram, Fadi Beshara, Joud Khattab, and Abdulsalam Hekal. They emphasize that "Syria Hackathon" is not just a competition but an open space for unleashing energy and creativity to map out a real reconstruction phase. With a wide presence and diverse project ideas, this hackathon appears to be a vibrant model for revitalizing youth efforts and enhancing cooperation between Syrians inside and outside the country, supporting the rebuilding of Syria's infrastructure and solidifying its economic and social foundations for the future.