Syria is divided into 14 governates, which serve as the country's primary administrative divisions at the first level of governance. Each governate functions as a key unit for implementing national policies and delivering public services to local populations. Governates are responsible for managing regional affairs including education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and maintaining public order within their territories. They act as intermediaries between the central government in Damascus and the local district administrations that form the second administrative level. A governor, typically appointed by the Ministry of Interior, heads each governate and oversees its administrative apparatus. The governate structure allows for decentralized management of resources and services while maintaining coordination with national authorities on matters of policy and security.