Bethnahrin Women’s Union urges Syriac women to confront violence on International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women

BETH NAHRIN — On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the Bethnahrin Women’s Union (Huyodo d’Neshe d’Bethnahrin, HNB) issued a statement calling upon Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women to stand up against violence, societal stagnation, and all forms of regression and repression.

The HNB statement addressed the historical oppression of women. Despite centuries of sacrifice and contributions, women have been systematically subjected to discrimination, losing their freedom and identity in the process.

In the midst of wars, the HNB noted that women often become the unfortunate targets of persecution. The statement highlights the daily atrocities faced by women, citing honor-based violence and other pretexts employed to exert control over them.

Emphasizing the persistence of backward practices in undemocratic regions, particularly in the Middle East and the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) homeland of Beth Nahrin (Mesopotamia), the HNB shed light on issues like forced early marriages, domestic violence, and the denial of educational opportunities for women.

While acknowledging a decrease in physical violence in democratic countries, the HNB underscores that psychological violence, particularly on the economic front, remains prevalent. Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women, according to the statement, are not exempt from these forms of violence, having endured centuries of discrimination.

The HNB drew attention to the unique challenges faced by Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women post-genocides, wars, and tragic events, highlighting the dual layers of violence they experience due to their Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) identity and gender.

Aligned with the philosophy of Michael Naim Hadodo, leader of the Bethnahrain National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo D’Bethnahrin, MUB), the HNB remains committed to fostering a life of freedom and autonomy for women. The union actively organizes across Beth Nahrin and the diaspora, encouraging courage and education among Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women to empower them.

In a resolute call to action, the HNB urged the cessation of all forms of violence, with a particular emphasis on ending violence against women. The statement concluded by inviting Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women to align with the HNB’s philosophy of freedom and join the fight against regression and repression.