Iraqi Women's League Commends struggle of Syrian women, calls on them to resist

The Vice President of the Iraqi Women's League, Suheila al-A'sam, assessed the reality facing Syrian women today, emphasizing its extreme complexity in light of the ongoing political, security, and economic crises. She also explained the doubled roles women have shouldered within the family and society.

Suheila al-A'sam stated that the situation of Syrian women today is characterized by complexity, adding: "The situation of women in Syria is complex and multifaceted. They live between two realities: on the one hand, there is a growing female presence in civil society and attempts to participate in peacebuilding; on the other hand, they suffer from an unstable security and political environment filled with violations and marginalization."

She explained that the situation of Syrian women can be described as "fragile yet resilient," as they strive to persevere despite the harsh conditions.

Challenges facing Syrian Women

Regarding the challenges, Suheila pointed out that the most prominent challenges facing Syrian women include violence and abuse, murder, kidnapping, and sexual violence, in addition to weak political participation and low representation of women in institutions and decision-making.

Suheila noted that the unstable security situation, the continuation of conflicts and sectarian tensions, poverty, and displacement have burdened Syrian women. Furthermore, there is legal and social discrimination, particularly in matters of inheritance, property ownership, and employment, which hinders women's advancement.

The impact of current circumstances on the lives of Syrian women

Turning to the impacts, Suheila al-A'sam indicated that the current circumstances have profoundly affected the lives of women, who have shouldered multiple roles: breadwinner, mother, and survivor of the conflict. This is compounded by increased psychological pressure resulting from violence and a lack of security.

Suhaila al-A’sam added, “Syrian women also suffer from declining educational and employment opportunities in some areas, and high rates of early marriage as a social ‘protection’ mechanism. This means that Syrian women have become the backbone of the family, but without adequate protection.”

The needs of Syrian women

In this regard, Suhaila explained that what Syrian women need today is security and effective legal protection, economic empowerment and job opportunities, support for small businesses, as well as psychological and social support, genuine participation in decision-making, and continuous education and training.

The importance of solidarity among women in the current situation

Regarding solidarity, Suhaila al-A’sam emphasized that solidarity among women is not an option but a necessity. It provides support and protection networks in light of weak institutions, which strengthens the social power to demand rights, facilitates the exchange of experiences and resilience, and counters attempts at marginalization and exclusion.

The Vice President of the Iraqi Women’s League noted that solidarity among women is one of the most important tools for women’s resilience in crises.

Improving the reality of Syrian women

In the context of solutions, Suhaila continued, saying, "The most important step is ensuring women's genuine participation in the political process and decision-making, because no sustainable change can be achieved without women being at the table, whether in the constitution, laws, or the reconstruction of the state."

Suhaila al-A'sam, Vice President of the Iraqi Women's League, concluded her remarks by saying, "Despite the pain and harsh conditions, you (Syrian women) have proven that you are capable of resilience and change. Do not give up your voices, nor your right to a dignified and safe life. Your strength lies in your unity and in your continued demands for your rights and building your future."

The Iraqi Women's League is one of the oldest and most prominent women's organizations in Iraq and is considered one of the first mass movements to defend women's rights, equality, education, and social and political participation. It was founded in 1952 as the League for the Defense of Iraqi Women's Rights, and later became known as the Iraqi Women's League.

ANHA