Bethnahrin Women’s Union urges action to end discrimination and violence against women

BETH NAHRIN — Amid ongoing violence and persecution against women throughout history, the Bethnahrin Women’s Union (Huyodo d’Neshe d’Bethnahrin, HNB) reaffirmed its dedication to advocating for the rights of Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women, calling for an end to all forms of discrimination and oppression.

The HNB emphasized that violence against women dates back to the shift of power from women to men, which rendered women vulnerable and deprived of agency and self-determination. This system, the statement noted, is rooted in discrimination, reinforced by both physical and psychological violence.

The Union highlighted that women have been the most adversely affected during wars and conflicts, suffering disproportionately in both developing and democratic nations. Psychological and economic violence remains especially prevalent in developing countries.

The HNB drew attention to the plight of Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women, who have endured historical oppression due to their national identity and gender. This suffering was compounded during events such as the Sayfo Genocide, the Simele Massacre, and the attacks carried out by the Islamic State (ISIS).

The statement also criticized the impact of social customs derived from earlier periods of governance, which relegated women to lower societal positions, even after the adoption of Christianity.

The HNB called upon Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women to resist all forms of violence and discrimination, urging them to support the Union’s efforts under the Bethnahrin National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo D’Bethnahrin, MUB) to improve the status of women in society.

The Union affirmed its commitment to organizing, educating, and empowering women to exercise their free will and contribute to building a society rooted in justice and equality.