arabic.euronews.com
Palmyra Shows Signs of Revival After ISIS Devastation
Despite significant challenges, the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra is experiencing a resurgence, with approximately 30,000 residents returning and efforts underway to restore its historical sites and revive tourism.
- What are the main obstacles hindering Palmyra's complete recovery?
- Landmines planted by ISIS, requiring extensive clearance efforts, and illegal excavation of artifacts for the black market pose significant challenges. These activities threaten the city's cultural heritage and require significant resources and international cooperation to combat.
- What is the current state of Palmyra and what are the most immediate observable changes?
- Around 30,000 residents have returned to Palmyra. Roads are safe, markets are reopening, and security is increased. Traditional Bedouin life, with tents and goat-hair houses, is reappearing along the roads to Palmyra.
- What are the prospects for Palmyra's future, considering ongoing restoration and tourism initiatives?
- The National Museum, supported by an Omani grant, is nearing completion. The Museum of Popular Traditions is open, and the archaeological site has modern lighting. 52 international archaeological missions have applied for permits, indicating significant interest in restoration and future research.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a largely positive portrayal of the situation in Palmyra, focusing on the return of residents and the revival of tourism. While acknowledging challenges, the emphasis is on progress and recovery. The headline (if any) likely reflects this optimism. The use of phrases like "remarkable resurgence" and descriptions of a "completely different scene" immediately set a positive tone.
Language Bias
The language used is generally positive, employing words like "remarkable," "resurgence," and "progress." However, the description of the pre-ISIS era is understated, and the article avoids strong criticism of the Assad regime or the destruction caused by the conflict. The term "safe roads" could be replaced with a more neutral description such as "roads open to traffic.
Bias by Omission
The article omits any significant discussion of the ongoing political situation in Syria, the role of the Assad regime in the reconstruction, and potential obstacles to long-term stability. The perspectives of those who haven't returned to Palmyra or who remain skeptical about the recovery are missing. There is also limited mention of the scale of the destruction and the long road to full recovery.
False Dichotomy
The narrative presents a somewhat simplistic dichotomy between the devastation of the ISIS occupation and the current efforts towards recovery. The complexities of rebuilding a war-torn city, including political challenges, economic inequalities, and social divisions, are not fully explored.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the reconstruction efforts in Palmyra, focusing on restoring infrastructure, reviving the local economy through tourism, and ensuring safety for residents and visitors. These actions directly contribute to sustainable urban development and the creation of resilient communities.