Feminist activist: Marginalizing Syrian women’s rights could spark new uprising

Calls are growing within social and women’s circles for the clear and explicit inclusion of women’s rights in any upcoming Syrian constitution, particularly in light of the marginalization and exclusion women have faced from decision-making positions during the years of war.

Fair representation and real opportunities

In this context, the executive director of the “For Feminism” organization in Raqqa, Sahbaa Farij, said: “As a vital and effective part of Syrian society, women’s rights must be fully protected, including fair representation and genuine opportunities to access jobs that match their professional and intellectual capabilities.”

She added to ANHA Agency: “There must be a real partnership in decision-making and access to leadership positions, and even to governing roles, in line with women’s competence and abilities—especially since they have proven themselves over the past 15 years despite marginalization and exclusion.”

Constitution and fair judiciary

Farij emphasized the importance of clear constitutional provisions, stating: “The constitution must safeguard human rights in general, with clear clauses guaranteeing women’s rights across all groups, along with genuine representation and no exclusion or marginalization of any component of Syrian society.”

She also highlighted the need for a genuine, corruption-free judiciary to ensure the implementation of the constitution and its provisions, thereby guaranteeing fair representation for women of all backgrounds and religions.

Accountability and reparations

Farij stressed the necessity of achieving transitional justice, adding: “The most important point is accountability. All those who committed violations during the war must be held accountable, in addition to reparations, guarantees of non-repetition, and meaningful moral compensation that takes into account the needs of communities.”

Warning against ignoring women’s demands

In conclusion, Sahbaa Farij warned of the consequences of ignoring women’s rights in any new constitution, saying: “Ensuring that women’s voices are not marginalized requires clear quotas for representation, transparent job opportunities, and international oversight during the transitional phase. If explicit guarantees for women’s rights are not included in the constitution, the trajectory may lead toward a new uprising.”

ANHA