A process of secularization in Syria occurred under the French mandate in the 1920s. Syria has been governed by the Arab nationalist Baath Party from March 8 1963 up until 8 December 2024. The Baath regime combined Arab Socialism with elements of the secular ideology along with an authoritarian political system which also incorporated aspects of Islamic law, with different court systems operating for religious minorities. Non-Muslims are forbidden from the role of head of state.