In December 2024, Bashar al-Assad fled Syria, marking the abrupt end of a family dynasty that had governed for over five decades. The downfall of his administration triggered renewed scrutiny into the lives of the Assads, particularly Asma al-Assad, Bashar’s wife, who was formerly known as Emma Akhras, a British-born investment banker from West London. Initially portrayed by Vogue as a progressive influence and “a rose in the desert,” she later became a contentious figure within Assad’s oppressive regime.
Chloe Hadjimatheou, The Observer’s narrative editor and host of the podcast ‘We Call Her Emma,’ discusses the evolution of Syria’s ex-first lady and her involvement in her husband’s governance with guest host Jason Markusoff.
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