In December 2024, Bashar al-Assad’s departure from Syria marked the end of a long-standing family rule that spanned over five decades. The fall of his regime triggered a renewed interest in the Assad family, particularly focusing on Asma al-Assad, Bashar’s wife, and former first lady of Syria.
Originally known as Emma Akhras, Asma hailed from West London and worked as an investment banker before assuming the role of Syria’s first lady. Once praised by Vogue for her modernizing influence and described as “a rose in the desert,” she later became a controversial figure associated with Assad’s oppressive government.
Chloe Hadjimatheou, The Observer’s narrative editor and host of the podcast ‘We Call Her Emma,’ delves into the evolution of Syria’s ex-first lady and her involvement in her husband’s authoritarian rule. For transcripts of the podcast, visit the Front Burner website.
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