Syria's economy contracted by 85% during nearly 14 years of civil war, which decimated infrastructure and sparked hyperinflation. The challenges are enormous and recovery will require support from the rest of the world.

Following a ten-day incursion, Syrian rebels have toppled the regime of Bashar al-Assad. European governments should step up support for a stabilising, power-sharing transition to protect their region

The sun of freedom has risen.’ Syrian opposition fighters have overthrown Bashar al-Assad after taking control of the capital Damascus.