Women’s Civil Organizations in North and East Syria Welcome British Delegation

ZALIN, North and East Syria — A high-level British delegation was warmly received by various women’s political parties and civil organizations in North and East Syria, including the Syriac Women’s Union (SWU), to discuss the challenges and rights of women in the region, as well as the broader political landscape. 

A key visit to strengthen political dialogue 

The visit, which took place at the Diplomatic Relations Office of the Star Conference in Zalin (Qamishli), brought together representatives from the SWU, the Star Conference (Kongreya Star), and other political parties and civil society organizations within the Women’s Council of North and East Syria. The delegation included prominent figures such as Martin Round, the Mayor of Madison, Karen Konstantin, Advisor and Deputy Head of the Labour Group at Kent County Council, Roger Lyons, former President of the Trades Union Congress, and Jason Kaplan, Director of Med Kent Aviation. 

Key issues discussed: women’s role in Syria’s future 

The discussions highlighted the urgent need for women’s participation in shaping Syria’s new constitution, addressing the challenges  face, particularly displaced women from Afrin, Ras al-Ayn, and Tal Abyad. One of the main topics was the ongoing aggression from Turkish forces and their proxies in the region, which continues to pose significant threats to the security and rights of women.they 

Sabah Shabo, a representative of the Syriac Women’s Union in the Women’s Council of North and East Syria, emphasized the struggles faced by the Syriac people, including exclusion, massacres, and displacement. She pointed out how the Autonomous Administration has empowered Syriac women by involving them in decision-making processes, a move that contrasts sharply with the exclusionary practices of the current Damascus regime. Shabo also criticized the National Dialogue Conference held in Damascus, claiming it did not represent the diverse Syrian population. 

A call for inclusivity in the political process 

Stera Qasim, another member of the Women’s Council, echoed these sentiments, denouncing the marginalization of women by the Damascus government and declaring that such policies were unacceptable. Additionally, Amina Osi, a member of the Democratic Political Relations and Agreements Committee of the Star Conference, emphasized that any political process that does not include women and all Syrian communities will be inherently incomplete. 

British delegation’s solidarity with Syrian women 

The British delegation expressed their admiration for the resilience and leadership of women in the region. They committed to amplifying the voices of Syrian women to the British public, highlighting their role in shaping a democratic and inclusive Syria. 

This visit underscored the importance of international solidarity in supporting women’s rights in Syria and the broader Middle East. It also highlighted the need for continuous advocacy to ensure that women’s voices are heard and included in the country’s future political framework.