Researcher returns to Syria after 14 years

Cécile Boëx, a researcher who once studied filmmakers in Syria, returned to Damascus in 2025 after a 14-year absence. Her return was marked by a mix of emotions and hope, as she documented her experiences in her book Retrouver Damas.

Syria as a case study for restricted research

For two decades, conflicts and authoritarian regimes in the Middle East have made it difficult for Western researchers to conduct social science studies. Syria, with its rich history and diverse society, became a key example of this challenge, as many research centers were forced to close after the 2011 uprising.

Closure of research centers and its impact

The 2011 Syrian uprising led to the closure of foreign research centers in Damascus and Aleppo. Researchers like Cécile Boëx were forced to adapt, as they could no longer access the field directly. The emotional toll of the war and the loss of friends weighed heavily on them.

Return to Damascus and the book's publication

In 2025, Cécile Boëx returned to Damascus for the first time since the war began. Her book Retrouver Damas, published by Actes Sud, is part of a new collection focusing on cities affected by war. The book includes personal reflections and photographs taken with a film camera, capturing the city's transformation and resilience.

Personal connections and societal grief

The book highlights Cécile Boëx’s reunions with Syrians who stayed in Damascus. It explores the grief and trauma experienced by individuals and communities, from everyday interactions in cafes to visits to cemeteries where her relatives are buried.

Transformation and continuity in Damascus

Boëx describes the city's transformation, shaped by war profiteers and economic hardship. Despite the changes, she notes the persistence of familiar smells, sounds, and friendships. The contrast between new developments and old poverty highlights the city's complex post-war reality.

Hope and the future of Syria

The book addresses the challenges of rebuilding and reconciliation in a fractured society. It includes voices from Syrians discussing the uncertainties of the new government and the hopes for justice and healing. Despite the difficulties, Boëx’s writing conveys a sense of optimism for a better future.