Syriac women lead International Women’s Day panel in Dayrik, advocating for equality and representation

DAYRIK, North and East Syria — To commemorate International Women’s Day, the Syriac Women’s Union (SWU), in partnership with the Bethnahrin Women’s Protection Forces (Ḥaylawotho d’Sutoro d’Neshe d’Beth Nahrin, HSNB) and the Syriac Security Forces (Sutoro and Sutoro Women), hosted a panel discussion in the city of Dayrik (Derik), North and East Syria. The event celebrated the achievements of Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women and highlighted their ongoing struggles in politics, security, and social activism.

Gathering of Voices and Perspectives

Held under the theme Syriac Women: The Spring of Syriac Identity and a Symbol of Peace and Freedom, the panel brought together representatives from the Bethnahrin National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo D’Bethnahrin, MUB), military and civil institutions, and members of the local community. Discussions emphasized the critical role of Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women in political, military, and security spheres, while also addressing the broader need for gender equality and strengthening women’s societal roles.

Leaders Call for Continued Struggle and Representation

Speaking with SyriacPress, Ilham Matli, a prominent member of the SWU, reflected on the importance of 8 March as a historic day for women worldwide, including Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women, who have made strides in gaining international recognition.

“Syriac women have amplified their voices on the global stage, advocating for their rights and the rights of their communities,” Matli said. “We will persist in our political, legal, and social struggles to secure our rightful place in every nation.”

Women’s Leadership Across Fields

Georgette Abdel Nour, head of the SWU’s Dayrik branch, praised the panel’s diversity, noting the inclusion of various ethnic and social groups. “Women have assumed leading roles in political, social, and organizational spheres,” Abdel Nour stated. “Their involvement is vital to shaping a fairer and more inclusive society.”

A fighter from the HSNB echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the strength and resilience of Syriac women. “We have continually proven our ability to defend ourselves and our communities,” she affirmed. “Our struggle will endure until we achieve full rights and recognition.”

Security and Protection at the Event

To ensure the safety of attendees, the Sutoro and Sutoro Women provided security for the event, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to safeguarding both public gatherings and the broader rights of Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women.

As International Women’s Day continues to serve as a platform for raising awareness and advocating for gender equality, the panel discussion in Derik stood as a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of Syriac women in their quest for recognition and justice.