Participation of Syrian Women in the Political and in Peacebuilding Processes
January 30, 2024 - Amidst the ongoing Syrian crisis, where women face significant challenges in various spheres, including political, economic, and societal participation, civil society organizations have emerged as beacons of hope, spearheading initiatives to empower women and promote their rights. One such organization, SYCAC, with the support of Baytna, has undertaken a comprehensive project, "Empowering Syrian Women," to enhance women's capabilities, foster their participation in society and politics, and build a more just and equal Syrian society. SYCAC's efforts encompass a range of activities, including legal and political empowerment training sessions for women in various regions in Syria.
These trainings equip women with knowledge of their rights and duties, empowering them to advocate for themselves and others. M.K., a participant from Idlib, exemplifies the transformative impact of these trainings. Before the program, she lacked awareness of her rights, but the training instilled a deep understanding of international agreements protecting women's rights. She learned to advocate for her rights within her family and community, fostering greater engagement in her local surroundings. The training also extended to the political process, empowering women to understand their role in shaping the future of Syria. N.M., another participant, shared her experience, emphasizing the training's effectiveness in enhancing her knowledge of the political process and developing her skills in political participation.
Similarly, SYCAC, launched a project to enhance Syrian women's empowerment through advocacy training. Targeting 45 active women in Idlib, the training empowered them with the skills and knowledge to defend their rights and those of others. Sanaa, a participant from the second workshop, expressed her newfound confidence in advocacy, attributing it to the training's practical exercises and rich content. Rasha, also, gained expertise in crafting impactful advocacy messages, using her skills to write a letter addressing the issue of violence against women.
These initiatives testify to the civil society organization's unwavering commitment to empowering Syrian women, fostering their participation in society and politics, and paving the way for a more just and equal Syria. The success stories of the mentioned participants are just a few examples of the transformative power of such programs, demonstrating their ability to equip women with the knowledge and skills necessary to advance their empowerment and contribute to the betterment of their communities.
As Syria navigates the complex path toward recovery and reconstruction, these initiatives hold the key to empowering Syrian women and ensuring their rightful place in shaping the future of their country.