The Anatomy of Dark Leadership: A Critical Analysis of Bashar al-Assad's Regime and Its Psychological Impact on Syrian Governance and Society

Abstract

Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria has been widely analysed for its authoritarian control, coercive governance, and psychological manipulation. This study critically examines dark leadership characteristics within Assad's rule, mainly through narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. It explores how Assad's leadership has manipulated political institutions, repressed opposition, and weaponised propaganda to maintain power, alongside the psychological and social consequences on Syrian society. This research uses qualitative research to incorporate political discourse analysis, thematic analysis of testimonies, and comparative studies of authoritarian regimes. The findings suggest that Assad's leadership has eroded political institutions, instilled long-term psychological trauma, and fragmented Syrian civil society. Additionally, the international community's response to Assad's rule has been inconsistent, reflecting broader challenges in addressing authoritarian leadership and human rights violations. This study contributes to political psychology, governance studies, and international relations, offering insights into the mechanisms of dark leadership and the challenges of dismantling authoritarian structures. The findings provide policy recommendations for rebuilding governance structures, addressing collective trauma, and mitigating the effects of autocratic rule in post-Assad Syria