We believe that secularism is a Western concept that emerged as a solution to specific crises in the West, and that applying it directly in the Syrian context without considering Syria’s unique cultural and social characteristics would render it either hybrid or ineffective.

We believe that the core concept of secularism aligns, in general, with Syrian society—particularly in its rejection of domination over the people in the name of religion, ethnicity, or sect.

We see the separation between state institutions as essential, to prevent the sanctification of errors or the silencing of criticism under religious pretexts. In particular, the separation of religious institutions from political institutions is necessary. 
Religion consists of diverse human interpretations, while political work is based on balancing choices. Therefore, assigning sacredness to a specific fatwa or political stance is a form of religious authoritarianism that must be rejected.

We reject hostility toward religion, its institutions, or its schools of thought, and we oppose excluding or marginalizing religion from public life.

We reject religious guardianship over people’s choices, whether within a single religion or across different beliefs.

We consider that the current Syrian version of secularism has become an obstacle to benefiting from the global secular experience. On one hand, the Syrian regime falsely claims to be secular, which distorts the concept. On the other hand, radical groups oppose secularism and reject it entirely.

We view secularism as a human experience that includes both extremism and moderation. From this perspective, we aim to benefit from all moderate ideas that can help address Syria’s political problems.

From our religious perspective, we do not believe that secularism contradicts religion. 
On the contrary, many scriptures and teachings support it within its general framework.

We respect religious schools and traditions that embrace moderation within secularism and share its rejection of sanctifying political authority and decisions.

We call for a cultural and intellectual dialogue among Syrians from different currents to mature a uniquely Syrian understanding of secularism—one that could contribute a new dimension to global human experience.

We believe secularism helps prevent the exploitation of education to promote a single narrative and suppress alternative views.

We see that legal legislation plays a role in strengthening the moderate form of secularism over its extreme manifestations.

We reject the exploitation of religious or sectarian discourse by politicians to achieve political gain.

We believe that civil society has a major role in promoting moderation and acceptance of secularism as a successful human experiment.

We consider secularism a solution to some of Syria’s issues, but it must be supplemented with essential elements missing in Syria—such as solid democratic practices and individual freedoms.

We do not seek to engage in ideological conflicts over secularism versus religious governance. Instead, we call for deeper reflection on national interest, rational thought, and scientific vision—while learning from successful human experiences and preserving Syrian distinctiveness.

We do not view secularism as a religion among religions, but rather as a way of thinking that removes sanctity from human beings and their actions—especially in political matters.

We call on Syrian religious leaders to learn from the secular experiences of advanced countries and to help promote a culture of moderation that rejects unjust generalization, takfir (excommunication), and betrayal.

We consider ourselves inclusive of all Syrian ideologies and viewpoints under a national and pragmatic vision, and we reject all forms of exclusionary rhetoric, regardless of their origin.