Seminar in Raqqa discusses violence against women from its social, religious perspective

The Women's Council of North and East Syria, in cooperation with the Women's Council of the Democratic Islam Conference, organized a dialogue seminar entitled "Violence Against Women from a Social and Religious Perspective" at the Women's Council Hall in Raqqa. In addition, members of the councils and representatives from civil organizations participated.

The seminar began with holding a minute of silence, after which Kinana al-Abdo, the spokesperson for the Women's Council of North and East Syria, presented the first axis entitled: Violence Against Women from a Social and Economic Perspective.

Al-Abdo stated that the economic violence is a complex form of violence, as it infringes upon women's independence and decision-making abilities. It manifests in controlling finances and preventing women from working or pursuing education, thus creating a cycle of dependency and exploitation.

She also addressed the domestic violence, emphasizing that "domestic violence is not a passing disagreement, but rather a recurring behavior aimed at control and harm. It stems from economic and social pressures and customs that justify dominance, threatening the stability of the family and society."

She also addressed the issue of minors' marriage, explaining that it constitutes a violation of the girl's rights, as it forces her into responsibilities beyond her psychological and physical maturity, leaving long-term effects on her life, health, and development.

Kinana al-Abdo concluded her presentation by saying, "Confronting violence in all its forms begins with raising awareness of women's rights and strengthening their presence in society. Empowering women economically and socially is the essential step towards building a balanced society based on justice and equality."

Then the floor was opened for discussion, as Hasseina Mansour, the member of the Training Committee at the Religious Council, spoke about digital violence, explaining that "digital violence today is considered one of the most dangerous types of violence because it occurs behind screens and away from the eyes of society, making victims more vulnerable to exploitation. Many women receive threatening messages, blackmail attempts, and defamation attempts, which cause them immense psychological distress."

Etimad al-Ahmad, the member of the Syrian Women's Council emphasized that raising awareness among women is crucial. She added, "Women must begin by raising their own awareness, balancing their rights and responsibilities, and breaking down societal stereotypes, because self-awareness is the first step in confronting any form of violence."

After that, Fatima Bouzan, the co-chair of the Religious Council, delivered the second axis, addressing violence against women from a religious perspective. She stated, "Violence against women is a behavior that contradicts the divine religions, which are founded on mercy and equality. The problem lies not in the religion itself, but in the misinterpretations used to subjugate and marginalize women."

Fatima Bouzan further explained, "Before the advent of Islam, women were deprived of their rights to inheritance, choice, and property. Then, Islam came to restore their status, but customs and misinterpretations have reproduced discrimination."

Fatima Bouzan concluded her axis by saying, "We must reread the texts in the spirit of equality brought by the religion, so that women can assume their natural role as essential partners in building society."

The seminar concluded with a number of interventions that called for the continuation of holding religious awareness seminars to inform women of their rights and enhance their presence in confronting violence in all its forms.

J.J

ANHA