'afrin, Syria

Capital City

Living in a war-torn border city doesn't get much more precarious than this former Kurdish stronghold, now emerging from years of military occupation and conflict. With a modest population of 36,562, this northern Syrian city has seen dramatic shifts in control, from Kurdish autonomy to Turkish occupation to recent Syrian government administration in 2025.

Split by the Afrin River, this ancient settlement-turned-market town has weathered multiple sovereignty changes since its 19th century founding. The economy revolves around olive production, though access is now heavily regulated - only Turkish-registered companies were permitted to operate during the occupation period. Recent infrastructure improvements include renovated electricity systems and dam repairs, providing some stability to basic services.

The security situation remains volatile despite the withdrawal of Turkish forces in 2025. Reports of human rights abuses, arbitrary detentions, and violent incidents like the 2020 bombing that killed 46 people highlight ongoing risks. For expats, the Mediterranean climate offering mild winters and hot summers takes a backseat to more pressing concerns about safety and political stability in this contested region.