Syria's Raqqa struggles to rebuild after years of rule by Islamic State group

In the northern Syrian city of Raqqa, inhabitants face a severe economic crisis and are subject to endless international sanctions. Six years after the city was liberated by the international coalition led by the US military and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, essential infrastructure has been rebuilt and a semblance of normal life has returned.

But huge problems remain: fear of Islamist attacks and tensions between the Kurdish and Arab populations amid rising oil prices, water shortages and a food emergency. Some residents prefer to leave the city altogether.

We went to meet the people of Raqqa – including the poorest inhabitants – to understand how the future of this ancient, strategic city will play out.

Read more Returning to the rubble in Raqqa

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