Syria, a country with a rich cultural and historical heritage, has been through significant challenges over the last few decades, especially in light of the civil war that has ravaged the nation since 2011. Amid the destruction, political upheaval, and humanitarian crises, a remarkable story has emerged. It is the resilience and evolving role of women in Syria. Women have long played a crucial part in Syrian society. Yet, the future of their involvement in both social and political spheres is set to change dramatically. This change comes as the country navigates its path forward.

In this article, we’ll explore the historical role of women in Syria, the impact of the ongoing conflict on their lives, and how their roles might evolve in the coming years, shaped by both internal factors and international influences.

Historical Role of Women in Syrian Society

Syria achieved significant progress in women’s status before the civil war. This progress was particularly noticeable in education and employment. Historically, Syrian women have been part of a patriarchal society, where cultural norms and religious practices often confined them to traditional roles. However, there were notable exceptions, particularly in urban areas, where women began to carve out professional and political spaces.

• Education and Employment: The education system in Syria was one area where women made great strides. Female literacy rates steadily improved, and more women began to attend universities. In fact, women outnumbered men in some university disciplines, particularly in fields like medicine, teaching, and the arts. Many women entered the workforce, taking jobs in education, healthcare, and government.
• Legal Rights and Political Participation: Women in Syria gained more legal rights through reforms implemented in the 1960s and 1970s, including laws that improved marital rights and access to divorce. In terms of political participation, Syria’s government has historically made symbolic efforts to include women in the political process. Women served in parliament. However, the overarching authoritarian regime limited their influence and power.
• Challenges to Gender Equality: Despite these advancements, the country’s deeply entrenched patriarchy and conservative societal norms created barriers for women. Social expectations often defined their roles in the family and community, leaving little room for them to fully participate in the political, economic, or cultural spheres.

Impact of the Syrian Conflict on Women

The civil war that began in 2011 has had devastating effects on the people of Syria, but women, in particular, have faced a set of unique and brutal challenges.

• Displacement and Refugee Status: One of the most tragic consequences of the war has been the displacement of millions of Syrians. Over 6 million Syrians have fled the country, and the majority of refugees are women and children. In refugee camps across neighboring countries like Lebanon, Jordan, and Turkey, women have often found themselves in precarious situations, subject to gender-based violence, exploitation, and a lack of access to basic services.
• Sexual Violence and Exploitation: The conflict has been marked by widespread reports of sexual violence. This includes rape, trafficking, and forced prostitution. Various factions have perpetrated these acts. Women have faced abductions and forced marriages as well. These violations have been used as weapons of war, with women suffering not only physical trauma but also profound psychological scars.
• Loss of Livelihood and Access to Education: Syria’s infrastructure has been destroyed. The nation’s economy has collapsed. As a result, women have lost many job opportunities they had before the war. The educational opportunities for girls have also drastically decreased, as many schools have been destroyed or repurposed as shelters for displaced people. The loss of economic and educational opportunities has set back gender equality by decades.
• Involvement in the War Effort: While many women have been victims of the conflict, others have actively participated in the war effort, taking on roles as fighters, political leaders, and human rights advocates. The Kurdish YPJ (Women’s Protection Units) in northern Syria became an iconic symbol of women’s resistance. Female fighters took up arms to defend their communities from ISIS and other forces.

The Future Role of Women in Syria: Possibilities and Challenges

As the war continues to rage, Syria’s future remains uncertain. However, the role of women in rebuilding the country and shaping its future will likely be pivotal. While there are many challenges ahead, there are also emerging opportunities for women to play a greater role in Syrian society and politics.

1. Political Empowerment and Advocacy

Women have shown immense resilience and leadership throughout the conflict, and there is growing momentum for their inclusion in the peace process and political negotiations. The international community increasingly acknowledges the need for women’s involvement in post-conflict reconstruction. There is hope that women will have a more prominent role in shaping the political future of Syria.

• Increased Political Participation: Women are already organizing in civil society groups. They are advocating for their rights. They are seeking representation in political processes. In areas controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), for example, women have held leadership roles. They have been particularly active in local governance and community rebuilding efforts. The hope is that, in a post-conflict Syria, women will gain greater access to political power, including representation in the government, parliament, and peace negotiations.
• International Pressure and Support: International actors, including the United Nations and NGOs, have increasingly emphasized the need for women’s participation in peacebuilding efforts. Resolutions like UN Security Council Resolution 1325 call for women’s involvement in peace processes. These resolutions could create avenues for greater gender equality in post-conflict Syria.

2. Economic Empowerment and Job Opportunities

The economic landscape of Syria is in ruins. The country’s recovery will require the active participation of all its citizens. This includes women. Women can thrive in the post-conflict economy, but addressing systemic barriers is crucial. Actions will need to be taken to ensure their economic participation.

• Access to Education and Training: Syria needs to rebuild its education system. This will ensure that girls and women can continue their education. Educational and vocational training programs will also be essential to equip women with the skills needed to participate in rebuilding efforts, especially in fields like healthcare, technology, and entrepreneurship.
• Entrepreneurship and Small Businesses: In many post-conflict societies, women have proven to be key drivers of economic recovery through entrepreneurship. Encouraging women to start their own businesses, whether in agriculture, manufacturing, or services, could help create jobs and foster economic growth. International aid and local organizations can play a role in providing microloans, mentorship, and business training.

3. Addressing Gender-Based Violence and Social Norms

While the conflict has highlighted the vulnerability of women to violence, it has also exposed the deep-seated gender inequalities that persist in Syrian society. Addressing these issues will be critical to creating a more equitable future for women.

• Legal Reforms: Post-conflict Syria will need significant legal reforms to protect women’s rights, particularly in relation to family law, inheritance, and domestic violence. Strengthening laws is essential. We must build institutions that protect women from sexual violence. This effort should be a top priority in the reconstruction process.
• Changing Societal Attitudes: Long-term cultural shifts will be required to dismantle the patriarchal norms that limit women’s freedom and opportunities. This includes challenging the traditional roles of women in the family and society, and promoting gender equality in both public and private spheres.

4. Health and Wellbeing

Women’s health, both physical and mental, is a critical area that needs urgent attention in post-conflict Syria. The war has taken a severe toll on women’s healthcare, and rebuilding the healthcare infrastructure will be crucial for ensuring women’s wellbeing.

• Reproductive Health: Access to reproductive healthcare and maternal services is essential, especially for displaced women who have been living in refugee camps or conflict zones with limited access to medical care. Rebuilding healthcare systems and ensuring women’s access to safe childbirth, family planning, and sexual health services will be crucial for their empowerment.
• Psychosocial Support: The psychological toll of war on women, including trauma from sexual violence, displacement, and the loss of loved ones, requires comprehensive mental health support. Programs focused on trauma recovery, counseling, and community healing will be vital for women’s long-term well-being.

Conclusion: A More Inclusive Future for Syrian Women

The future of Syrian women is closely tied to the country’s broader path toward peace and recovery. While the war has left deep scars, it has also provided opportunities for women to demonstrate leadership, resilience, and strength in the face of adversity. As Syria rebuilds, the role of women will be crucial in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society. With the right legal, economic, and social reforms, the next generation of women in Syria could enjoy greater rights, opportunities, and representation than ever before, transforming the nation in profound ways. The journey toward this future will be challenging, but it is also full of potential.