WEEKLY UPDATE
April 16, 2016

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the weekly Syria Deeply newsletter. We’ve rounded up the most important stories and developments about Syria and the Syrians in order to bring you valuable news and analysis.

Kodmani: Geneva and the Failing Cease-Fire (Part 1)
As the cease-fire falters and government and opposition representatives prepare to meet in Geneva, Syria Deeply spoke with Bassma Kodmani, a key member of the opposition’s High Negotiations Committee, to learn more about increasing violence on the ground and its effect on the dynamics in Geneva.

Kodmani: Geneva and the Failing Cease-Fire (Part 2)
In Part 2 of Syria Deeply’s conversation with Bassma Kodmani, a key member of the Syrian opposition’s High Negotiations Committee, she addresses outstanding issues in Geneva, including detainees, transitional justice, the inclusion of the Kurds and the role of women within the opposition.

Jabal Turkman Abandoned as Residents Flee to Turkey
Jabal Turkman in northern Latakia has been a battlefield since the beginning of the Syrian conflict. But this past week, the last remaining villagers fled, leaving more than 20 villages completely abandoned. Turkmen villagers now worry the Assad government will attempt to repopulate the mountain with loyalists.