Hind Kabawat, Syria’s sole female minister in the transitional government, is steadfastly advocating for women’s representation and empowerment in a nation grappling with the aftermath of conflict. Appointed in March 2023, Kabawat is not merely a symbolic figure; she is committed to enacting substantial change in a society that has long endured sectarian violence and economic despair.
A Call for Women’s Representation
From her first day in office, Kabawat has been vocal about the absence of women in positions of power within the new government. “Why are there no more women?” she recalls asking President Ahmed al-Sharaa shortly after his administration took shape. Her concerns resonate deeply in a country where the scars of civil war and dictatorship have left much of the population, particularly women, vulnerable and marginalised.
Kabawat’s role encompasses a multitude of responsibilities, from addressing the needs of orphans and widows to creating job opportunities for millions displaced by nearly 14 years of conflict. With 90% of Syrians reportedly living below the poverty line, the urgent need for strategic action is undeniable. The World Bank estimates that rebuilding Syria will require upwards of $200 billion, a staggering figure that reflects the enormity of the task ahead.
Bridging Divides in a Fragmented Society
As she seeks to mend the fractures within Syrian society, Kabawat acknowledges the government’s missteps since its inception. In the wake of recent sectarian violence, she insists on the necessity of accountability, stating, “Mistakes happen in transition, in post-conflict; no one is happy about it, including the president.” She highlights the establishment of inquiries into crimes committed during the turmoil, noting that many perpetrators are now imprisoned.
Her approach hinges on dialogue, a principle she believes is essential for rebuilding trust in a nation that has suffered under decades of authoritarian rule. “It’s taking time for people to say ‘we trust you’ after 50 years of dictatorship,” she explains, underscoring the need for trust at both the grassroots and governmental levels.
Empowering Women and Youth
Kabawat’s commitment to women’s empowerment is evident in her interactions with various communities. During a recent visit to Idlib, she engaged with women and young girls, encouraging them to take on leadership roles and pursue political ambitions. Despite the challenges posed by a patriarchal society, Kabawat insists that women must be more politically strategic to ensure their voices are heard in the new parliament.
“Not a single woman was elected from Idlib in the recent elections,” she lamented, stressing the importance of unity and intelligent political action among women. The energy in the room during her discussions was palpable, as women expressed their determination to seize decision-making power. “We either occupy a space where we hold all the decision-making power, or we don’t want to be in that space at all,” one young participant asserted passionately.
Navigating Challenges in Governance
Kabawat’s tenure is marked by significant challenges, including the need for a robust legal framework and transparent governance. She is resolute in her belief that any attempts to undermine her authority will lead her to resign. “I won’t be here the minute I see that I can’t appoint my own deputy and don’t have the freedom to make my own strategy,” she stated emphatically.
The urgency for international support remains critical. The need for a united effort from the global community to assist in rebuilding Syria is ever-present, particularly as donors are hesitant due to ongoing volatility in the region. Kabawat’s message is clear: a fragmented government cannot hope to thrive. “If he’s not going to be inclusive and bring many people together in the government… we can’t survive,” she warned.
Why it Matters
Hind Kabawat’s role as Syria’s only female minister is emblematic of the broader struggle for women’s rights and representation in post-conflict societies. Her insistence on active participation and empowerment of women is a critical step toward fostering a more inclusive governance model in Syria. As the nation strives to recover from years of devastation, the path forward hinges not only on rebuilding infrastructure but also on healing societal divides and recognising the invaluable contributions of women in shaping the future of their country. Kabawat’s leadership may well serve as a catalyst for change, inspiring others to challenge the status quo and advocate for a more equitable society.
