Syrian Women’s Council hosts symposium on combating electronic blackmail and its societal impact

NORTH AND EAST SYRIA — As part of the activities marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the Syrian Women’s Council organized a dialogue symposium titled “Electronic Blackmail and Its Effects on Society” on 25 November. The event was held under the umbrella of the joint activities platform of women’s movements and organizations in North and East Syria.

Sabah Shabo, a member of the administrative body of the Women’s Council Coordination in North and East Syria, spoke to Syriac Press about her participation in the symposium. Shabo emphasized the critical role of the family as the foundational unit of society and underscored the dangers posed by electronic blackmail, especially to young women who may lack awareness of the risks associated with digital technologies. She called for community awareness campaigns to educate vulnerable groups, particularly young girls, about the dangers of hacking and the theft of personal information.

Maya Shabo, Vice President of the Women’s Committee in Gozarto (Jazira) Canton and a member of the Syriac Women’s Union (SWU), also addressed the symposium. She stressed the need to tackle electronic blackmail as a societal crime with far-reaching consequences, including family disintegration and psychological harm.

The event saw the participation of several women’s organizations from the region, including the Syriac Women’s Union. The discussions highlighted the urgent need to address this growing issue and foster awareness to protect individuals and strengthen community resilience.

The symposium is part of broader efforts by women’s movements in the region to confront emerging challenges and advocate for a society free from violence and exploitation.