The MJD Vision

The Movement for Justice and Development is committed to peaceful, democratic change in Syria, and the creation of a modern state which respects human rights and promotes economic and social development. That commitment is reflected in an agenda for change that emphasizes non-violence, mass democratic participation, representative politics, young talent, and a mature outlook on regional and international affairs.


Guiding Principles

1- Non-Violent Struggle

We have a fresh new approach to fighting dictatorship in Syria. Instead of using violence, which will only embolden the regime, we propose a non-violent strategy, which targets the regime where it is most vulnerable: popular support. We believe that sudden, violent change will only produce a dictatorship of another kind. Genuine democracy can only be established through increasing political consciousness and a graduated process of political action, culminating in genuine, permanent change.

2- Traditional Networks

The Movement for Justice and Development adopts a positive attitude to traditional societal institutions. Recognizing that Syrian society is ancient and complex, and taking measure of ruinous social revolutionary policies, we believe that clubs and societies, local life, religion and family custom and time-honoured systems of civil authority have a role to play in building a sustainable democracy. 

3- Broad-Based Movement

We aim to represent as broad a constituency as possible. Within a system based on democracy, rule of law and human rights, people of different political and religious persuasions, or class and ethnic backgrounds, can cooperate on building a future Syria. We believe in a one-nation Syria, in which the interests of diverse social and corporate groups can be pursued harmoniously.

4- Centrism

The Movement for Justice and Development is dedicated to a centrist approach to politics. We believe that ideologically-motivated parties are no longer effective in implementing change, and that a new congruent approach is needed. Too many key issues in Syrian politics are hostage to the polarized views of a radical minority. The Syrian people are by nature moderates, and reaching a common consensus is essential if the process of democratic change is take root.   

5- Syria First

We feel very strongly that all policies must be formulated with the interests of Syria in mind. For too long, Syria's foreign relations have been mortgaged to pan-national ideologies or to the interests of other nations. We believe that it is time Syrians asserted their control over the way their country conducts itself regionally and internationally. This means sensible, pragmatic and forward-thinking policies that place Syria at the heart of the international community.