Amid the abrupt departure of Bashar al-Assad from Syria in December 2024, the longstanding reign of the Assad family over the nation came to an end. This event triggered renewed scrutiny into the lives of the Assads, shedding light on Asma al-Assad, Bashar’s wife, who transitioned from being Emma Akhras, a British investment banker from West London, to becoming a highly controversial figure within Assad’s oppressive regime.

Chloe Hadjimatheou, The Observer’s narrative editor and the host of the podcast ‘We Call Her Emma,’ engages in a discussion with guest host Jason Markusoff about the evolution of Syria’s former first lady and her involvement in her husband’s authoritarian rule. For transcripts of the podcast, please visit the provided link. Stay updated by subscribing to Front Burner on your preferred podcast platform.

Listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube for more insights into the narrative surrounding Syria’s former first lady and her role in the regime.