Calls for Fair Representation of Women in Syria’s Future

The constitutional declaration recently issued by the Damascus authorities continues to provoke widespread criticism, particularly in light of the clear marginalization of women’s roles in shaping the country's next phase. With only a single cabinet seat allocated to a woman, many female leaders and activists have denounced this as a continuation of political and social exclusion targeting Syrian women.

 In this context, Fatima Al-Ali, spokesperson for the General Women’s Council of the Future Syria Party, emphasized:

"The absence of women from decision-making centers poses a significant risk to the future of the democratic Syria that all Syrians hope to build."

 She added: "We understand that the absence of women in any domain reflects the absence of genuine democracy and freedom. Therefore, we demand women’s inclusion across all sectors—political, military, and judicial—especially given that Syrian women have proven their capabilities in various fields, particularly within the framework of the Autonomous Administration in North and East Syria."

 Nayrouz Muslim, a lecturer at the University of the East, asserted that the marginalization of women in the new government formation is no coincidence, but rather a reflection of a systematic exclusionary approach that must be countered through solidarity among women inside and outside Syria.

"What we are witnessing today in terms of the exclusion of women from political and social life requires a thorough and honest assessment of the current reality. The new constitution, as it stands, lacks clear provisions to guarantee women’s rights. The inclusion of only one woman in the new cabinet is a stark indication of an ongoing policy of marginalization."

 She continued:"We firmly believe in the necessity of unified political mobilization among women, in coordination with our sisters throughout Syria. Together, we can advocate for a pluralistic, decentralized, and democratic future—one in which women are rightfully represented in political and social life, as well as in education and training fields."

 Muslim further stressed that the war has created a void that has been exploited by extremist religious narratives, exacerbating the exclusion of women more than ever before.

"Syrian women have always been an essential part of this society’s history and civilization. We categorically reject the distorted image being imposed on women today under the guise of a new government that fails to reflect their true representation."

 For her part, Maha Al-Obaid, Co-Chair of the Relations Office of the Future Syria Party, emphasized that women have long served as a fundamental pillar of political and social life.

"We hope to see women holding key ministerial portfolios, as we have witnessed in the Autonomous Administration experience, where genuine participation has enabled women to occupy 50% of decision-making roles, demonstrating their competence and leadership."

 In conclusion, the three activists affirmed that the exclusion of women from decision-making platforms constitutes a serious setback for the democratic future of Syria. They called on the Damascus authorities to reassess their political outlook and to ensure inclusive and equitable representation of women in all spheres.

a.k

ANHA