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The Role of Syrian Women in Peacebuilding

The Role of Syrian Women in Peacebuilding

Peacebuilding, Social and Humanitarian Issues /
The Role of Syrian Women in Peacebuilding

The Role of Syrian Women in Peacebuilding

“Syrian women are always told by their comrades that gender equity comes second after human rights and stopping of war; but without gender equity, there will be neither peace nor human rights.”
– Zaina Erhaim; Journalist, feminist, and communications consultant/trainer. [1]

The Importance of Women in the Peacemaking Process

Involving women in the peacemaking process is an absolute necessity, as they constitute over half of society in terms of numbers and the impact of their role in all fields. They have proven their role as breadwinners of their families, humanitarian primary responders, leaders, and peacebuilders. [1]

Therefore, Building the influence of women as peace actors and decision-makers is critical in working for a just future for Syria. Equality does not achieve justice for women only, but for society as a whole. The role of women in building and making peace should not be only formal, but diplomatic and in the field, specifically with peacekeepers. Gender equality is one of the means that can stop violence in societies and impose peace among people. Achieving equity is one of the Sustainable Development Goals for a better future for humanity. [3]

A quantitative analysis examining 156 peace agreements found that the participation of local women in peace negotiations increased the probability of cessation of violence within one year by 24.9 percent. 

In the last two decades, we began to see an acceleration in the pace of the feminist movements in the Middle East, including at the Syrian level and the Syrian feminist political movement. [4]

Crises That Formed the Role of Women in Peacemaking

  • The Syrian war: 

As a result of the Syrian war, Syrian women have been affected by the conflict. Of those who need humanitarian aid, half are women and girls. Syrian women have higher rates of poverty than men, they face an increased risk of gender-based violence, and they shoulder the responsibility of caring for their children and other family members. During the Syrian war, women became the main breadwinners of their families. This is partially due to a large number of casualties among men during the war. It is noteworthy in this regard that women are responsible for about a third of families in Syria, and for about 40 to 50 percent of families in countries of asylum. These women strive to cover the basic costs of their families, and they bear enormous responsibilities.

In addition to the effects of war on women, such as gender-based violence, arrests and killings, targeting of civil activists and human rights defenders, asylum, displacement, and forced displacement. [2] [3]

  • Covid-19 Pandemic:

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a spike in violence against women in the midst of lockdowns and quarantine measures. It is reported that women constitute 70% of the workforce in the health sector, which makes them more vulnerable to infection and disease. [2]

Women and Peace Conferences, Between Recommendations and Actual Participation

All these difficulties did not prevent many women from playing their political and diplomatic roles, as well as in building peace and achieving justice. Rather, they proved their presence in the field, and in countries of expatriation and asylum. [3]

In addition to these challenges, Syrian women have advocated for their inclusion in the UN-led peace process. In 2000, the United Nations ratified Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security, and recommended that women comprise at least 30 percent of participants in peace talks in 2002.

The world organization released the Geneva I Communique which states, “Women must be fully present in all aspects of the transition.”

Amendments have also been made to the Law of Personal Status, increased participation in training and skills development activities, and an increase in women’s entrepreneurship in the country since the beginning of the conflict. However, the direct participation of women in high-level peace negotiations and the rate of women’s participation in political decision-making at the national and local levels remains disappointingly low.

On average, women constituted only 13 percent of negotiators, 6 percent of mediators, and 6 percent of signatories in major peace processes worldwide between 1992 and 2019. [4]

While during the August 2020 meeting of the Constitutional Committee, the United Nations-facilitated constituent assembly to adopt a new Constitution of Syria as part of the peace process, the lack of gender parity was clear. Only thirteen of the forty-five-member drafting committee were women. [4]

In view of the above, we find that the inclusion of Syrian women in the peace process and decision-making has made remarkable progress, but it is slow and unsatisfactory.

It requires greater moves by local and international institutions on the one hand, and demands by women’s parties on the other hand, in order to reach the reality that women’s participation in peacemaking is taken for granted in all conferences.

In our initiative, we seek to empower and support women and bridge the gender gap. Considering that women are peaceful in nature and constitute an essential part of achieving many human endeavors at all levels, we believe that encouraging and motivating women to participate actively in achieving peace is the duty of individuals, groups, and governments together.

Also read: Role of Education in Peacebuilding.

♀️ Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative aims at sustainable peace building in Syria through targeting women and providing them with free online courses, workshops, discussion sessions and trainings, with a view to achieving the goals of Gender Equality, Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth, which all fall into the interest of society as a whole and serve the purpose of rebuilding it.

References:

[1] UN Women News

[2] UN Women Articles

[3] The Syrian Women PM

[4] Carnegie

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The phenomenon of Infant abandonment

The phenomenon of Infant abandonment

Social and Humanitarian Issues /
The phenomenon of Infant abandonment in Syria

The phenomenon of Infant abandonment in Syria

Unfortunately, the phenomenon of Infant abandonment in Syria is no longer strange to any Syrian. It is a dangerous phenomenon that represents the clearest, most painful, and cruel remnants of war and ignorance.
According to an article in Al-Watan newspaper on May 12, 2022: “The General Director of the General Authority for Forensic Medicine, Dr. Zaher Hajjo, revealed that 38 foundlings have been documented since the beginning of this year until the date of preparing the news, including 17 female and 21 male.” [1]

This phenomenon is a clear reflection of the catastrophic conditions experienced by the Syrian people, which include economic conditions and moral tragedies as a result of the ugliness and violence of the war that the people have lived through for a long time.

In addition to the difficulty of a simple routine life, which is loaded with the constant burden of waiting for the most basic necessities of life. And the psychological effects resulting from this, and always expecting the worst, the situation is in a permanent decline.

Reasons behind the phenomenon of Infant abandonment

There are several reasons that create this severe phenomenon:

  • Economic reasons:

As the war in Syria enters its eleventh year, families across the country are facing unprecedented levels of poverty and food insecurity. More Syrians today than ever are struggling to put food on their tables.

Large-scale hostilities and mass displacement across the northern governorates, along with a severe economic downturn, suggest that the overall food security situation is deteriorating across the country, and families need support to meet their needs and rebuild their lives.

The World Food Program estimates that 12.4 million Syrians are currently food insecure. This is an increase of 4.5 million in the last year alone and the highest number ever recorded.

The ongoing Syrian war has depleted community assets, wiped out livelihoods, and weakened the resilience of the family and society. [2]

  • Social reasons:

Despite the bad economic conditions and the permanent deterioration, the prevailing social patterns are the main cause of child abuse.

Constant social pressure from society regarding the imperative of marriage and childbearing is the biggest cause of phenomena such as child throwing, domestic violence, and child labor. Because the reasons that cause individuals to have children are not based on personal convictions.

Moreover, many parents may be psychologically unfit to take responsibility for their children.

In addition to many of the prevailing ideas that encourage procreation without recognizing the economic reality experienced by the family, such as the popular saying: “when a child comes, his livelihood would come with him”. Unfortunately, many believe that and cause a permanent decline in the living situation of many families.

  • Poor awareness of reproductive health:

In many Syrian regions, the culture of birth control is still weak due to ignorance and insufficient awareness of how and the importance of using contraceptive methods.

  • Crimes of rape and illicit relations:

Many members of society still do not differentiate between the criminal and the victim in rape crimes, and they always punish the weaker party, which is the woman. Therefore, instead of the victim seeking to expose the criminal and obtain her right, she is satisfied with silence for fear of the rulings of society and in many cases out of fear for her life from those close to her, especially in the event of pregnancy. Either she resorts to illegal abortions, which puts her life at risk, or she waits for the baby to come and gets rid of him by cruel methods if she is not killed by those close to her.

Illicit relationships are usually characterized by evasion of responsibility without realizing the disastrous effects of abandoning children.

The legal aspect of this phenomenon

Article 484 of the Penal Code stipulates that whoever puts up or abets a child under the age of seven, or any other person who is unable to protect himself due to a physical or psychological condition, shall be punished by imprisonment from 3 months to a year. If the child or the incapacitated person was thrown away or left in a desolate place, the punishment will be from one to three years.

Article 487 of the Penal Code: “A father or mother who leaves their legal, illegitimate or adopted child, whether they refuse to implement the maintenance obligation that falls on them or neglect to obtain the means that enable them to fulfill it, shall be punished with imprisonment for three months at most and a fine not exceeding one hundred Syrian Pounds.” [3]

The fate of children after their abandonment

Syrian law defines the unknown parentage as “every child whose parentage is not proven or whose father is not known, in addition to children who have no breadwinner, and who cannot be asked about their relatives because of their young age; and children born from an illegal relationship, even if their mother is known.”

The Syrian law for people of unknown parentage was enacted in 1970, and has not undergone any fundamental amendment since that time, except for the issuance of some decrees, such as changing the word “foundling” to “unknown parentage.” In 2018, a new draft law for persons of unknown parentage was presented in the People’s Assembly for discussion. Although it is not new in its content and is only formulated according to the new legislative language, it has not been approved.

There is only one government care home for people of unknown parentage, and it is located in Damascus.  In the city of Aleppo, the “Childhood Guaranteeing Association”, commissioned by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour, was recently allowed to establish a home for them that has the same powers as the governmental care home, and the same laws are applied to it under the supervision of the Ministry. As for the children found in the rest of the governorates, they are referred to as Damascus.

According to the law, whoever finds a child must immediately inform the police or the mayor, in order to organize the necessary report, and hand him over to one of the institutions or persons approved by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor. [4]

Unfortunately, regardless of the suffering that these children may suffer in care homes, and the constant feeling that they are not desired by their parents, it is a society that plays the biggest role in abusing them instead of sympathizing with them as victims without guilt. Society reinforces the sense of rejection they feel by ostracizing them in many situations, especially with regard to marriage and establishing a family, and what they may need most is a sense of belonging and warmth.

Solutions

  • The solution lies mainly in educating individuals about the social, economic, and moral responsibilities of childbearing.
  • In addition to raising awareness of the importance of using contraceptives and providing them free of charge to those who need them in all government hospitals and health clinics.
  • Improving the living situation, in general, will have a positive impact on all aspects of life, including the moral aspect, which would reduce the immoral phenomenon of throwing children.
  • Implementing laws that guarantee the rights of children born as a result of crimes of rape and illegal relations, and psychologically rehabilitating their parents to be worthy of their care.
  • Ensuring the protection of a woman who has been raped from any abuse she may be subjected to, thus limiting her taking harmful measures against her or her child.
  • Changing the stereotype in society towards children of unknown parentage.

Efforts to reduce the phenomenon of Infant abandonment

Unfortunately, no real action was taken on the ground to reduce this phenomenon, and it was not considered a phenomenon in the first place. A member of the Executive Office of the Health, Social Affairs and Civil Defence Sector in Damascus Governorate, Basil Mihoub, told the local “Sham FM” radio: “The graph related to the presence of children left in the street does not indicate an increase, and within a period of one to two months, the situation turned to be points. He pointed out that “increasing means the transformation of the situation from a behaviour to a phenomenon, in addition to the finding of 4-5 cases per day.” [5]

We hope that this phenomenon will be taken into consideration and its catastrophic effects on the structure of society and that its causes that may lead to other problems will be addressed.

In our initiative, we seek to change the wrong prevailing ideas in society, and we try to spread awareness of the importance of equality between men and women and bring about positive change by discussing topics of interest to society. Real change results from the gradual change of ideas.

Also read: Role of Education in Peacebuilding.

♀ (Uplifting Syrian Women) is an initiative that seeks to build sustainable peace in Syria by focusing on and assisting women by providing free online courses, workshops, discussions and trainings; With the aim of achieving the goals of gender equality, quality education and improving the economic situation, which are in the interest of society in general and serve the purpose of rebuilding it.

References

[1] Alwatan

[2] WFP

[3] Learning Partnership

[4] Assafir Alarabi

[5] Al7al

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Role of Education in Peacebuilding

Role of Education in Peacebuilding

Peacebuilding /
Role of Education in Peacebuilding

Role of education in Peacebuilding

In 2022, peacebuilding remains one of the person’s demands and seeks to achieve. Owing to the fact that building societies begin with building people, all countries have concluded the necessity of establishing peace through education in order to reach a reality where peace is an inevitable matter. What is the concept of peace we are talking about? Can it really be taught and learned?

What does peace mean?

Peace is the state of security, stability, and harmony among all individuals in the absence of all forms of unrest, wars, and violence. The purity of this term has prompted all societies to seek peace in their regions and with other regions, in comparison to the urgent and valuable benefit that is reflected on the human being in all aspects. [1]

What made us in need of peacebuilding?

The events that took place in the world and claimed the lives of millions of people were the direct causes of humanity’s need for peace. “To save succeeding generations from the scourge of war” are among the first very words of the UN Charter (in its Preamble).

Those words were the main motivation for creating the United Nations after the two World Wars and the resulting devastation.

The consensus was to establish the United Nations on 24 October 1945 (the date of its Charter’s entry into force), help restore peace following the outbreak of armed conflict, and promote lasting peace in societies emerging from wars. [5]

Obstacles to peacebuilding

While peace is highlighted and needed, the process of pursuing it is hampered by obstacles to its achievement in the current world, the most important of which are:

  • Rivalry among the poles of the world; in the United Nations Security Council which was established for the purpose of achieving international peace, the interest of the major Powers has overcome the Council’s fundamental endeavor by granting them the veto power to advance their interests over the interests of international security and stability.
  • Religious and ethnic intolerance, which has resulted in many conflicts and violence, has left hatred among these parties entrenching terrorism and extremism.
  • The greed of the major powers and their attempt to control the natural and economic resources of developing countries.
  • The imbalance of the global economic system; the existence of very poor and rich societies, and this has produced – in most societies – a state of complaint and grudge. [2]

Community peace

Community or social peace is the most important and fundamental factor in achieving stability and security for all societies by bringing justice and ensuring the rights of all individuals. In addition to creating cooperation and partnership among individuals and raising their citizenship values. This ensures the achievement of development, progress, growth, and prosperity in different sectors and the development of social institutions because all efforts are in the service of the nation and society.

In the case of disputes and wars, societies are divided into several parties that are preoccupied with revenge and retaliation against each other, and private interests are supreme and dominate over socialism and the public interest. In these turbulent situations, it is impossible to preserve even the minimum existing civilization which leads to the total collapse of society’s entity. [3]

Teaching a culture of community peace

One of the most striking things is the need for education and training on a culture of social peace in the personality of each individual, which has become inevitable so that the results begin to be verified. This generates a great responsibility on the institutions of society to consolidate and empower this culture, starting from the psychological inner peace of each individual to the general societal peace and environmental peace with a focus on sustainable development.

Peace education is the process of providing individuals with values ​​and knowledge and developing their attitudes, skills, and behaviors to live affectionately and calmly with themselves, others, and the natural environment. [3]

What is the role of education in peacebuilding?

Education is the most important means of getting rid of ignorance and hatred, through which the culture and civilization of other peoples, their customs and traditions, are introduced. Through this knowledge, people learn to respect each other and appreciate the cultural and religious differences among them, which allows wide scope for rapprochement and settlement of differences away from the culture of violence and war.

Spreading the culture of peace and tolerance in societies has become the most important endeavor that is transmitted to all members of society and to generations through education. By combating all factors of fear of others and developing the ability of generations and pushing them to the independence of opinion and critical and ethical thinking.

Educational policies and programs prepared by governments and organizations contribute to promoting solidarity and tolerance among individuals and combating violence and extremism, by teaching human values ​​to achieve peace, integration, mutuality, social solidarity, knowledge of human rights, and human dignity through continuous development and improvement of curricula. Most importantly, linking education with life skills. [4]

The Role of Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative in Building Peace through Education

Uplifting Syrian Women is an initiative that seeks to achieve and build peace in the Syrian society in particular and the global communities in general through education and its voluntary, free-of-charge educational courses, interactive workshops, and discussion sessions to activate freedom of discussion and participation, with the aim of achieving the goals of gender equality, quality education and improving the economic situation. Which is in the interest of the peace of society in general and serves the purpose of rebuilding it.

Also read: Cyberbullying and Harassment- In Disguise Crime.

♀️ Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative aims at sustainable peace building in Syria through targeting women and providing them with free online courses, workshops, discussion sessions and trainings, with a view to achieving the goals of Gender Equality, Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth, which all fall into the interest of society as a whole and serve the purpose of rebuilding it.

References:

[1] Mawdoo3- Peace

[2] Mawdoo3- Community Peace

[3] Mimir

[4] Ishtar

[5] UN

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International Literacy Day

International Literacy Day

International Celebration /
International Literacy Day

International Literacy Day

Literacy is a goal pursued by all societies. What is the real reason that moved the whole world towards achieving this goal?

”..Literacy empowers individuals and it expands people’s capabilities and freedom of choice.” Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO Director General. [7]

Every human being on the face of the globe has the right to learn and read, in his home, by his parents and family first, and proceeding to school and then university. A life-long right, with no time limits and no ultimate goal. Although the learning process goes hand in hand with our daily life, for one reason or another, many human beings are deprived of this right.

International Literacy Day

In 1966, UNESCO declared September 8 as International Literacy Day to emphasize the importance of reading and learning and to push individuals and communities alike to pursue it. The idea of the International Literacy Day was the result of the events of the World Conference of Ministers of Education, which was held for literacy on September 18 and 19, 1965 in Tehran, the capital of Iran.

In addition, the issue of literacy is a key goal of the Sustainable Development Goals. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) promote access to quality, equitable and inclusive education for all and promote lifelong learning opportunities, and it’s the Fourth of their goals. [1]

Education is the key to the improvement and economic and social development of the individual. Despite the available means and facilities, about 260 million children were still out of school in 2018 — nearly one-fifth of the global population in that age group. And more than half of all children and adolescents worldwide are not meeting minimum proficiency standards in reading and mathematics. [2]

Literacy and the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected education; as it has revealed the disparities and shortcomings that exist in the educational systems of each society, as well as other economic and social aspects.

While some developed countries have adapted to the closure of schools by resorting to distance education. [1]
About 6.1 billion children and young people have dropped out of school by 2020 [2], so their learning journey has been disrupted. This is a result of the digital divide and other inequalities between countries, such as the lack of permanent availability of electricity or internet connection, as well as the inability to have access to electronic devices or even the ability to use them. [1]

To ensure that children have access to continuous learning, UNESCO launched the COVID-19 Global Education Coalition in March 2020. It is a multisectoral partnership between the United Nations family, civil society organizations, the media, and Information Technology Partners. Its objective is to design or deploy innovative solutions as well as address communication gaps and facilitate learning opportunities and the return of students to school when it reopens to avoid an upsurge in dropout rates. [2]

The Role of UNESCO in Literacy

First of all, it is worth mentioning that UNESCO has been at the forefront of the issue of literacy since 1946. To promote literacy, UNESCO is taking the following steps to promote literacy:

  • First, building solid foundations during early childhood education.
  • Second, providing quality basic education for all children.
  • Third, Scaling-up functional literacy levels for youth and adults who lack basic reading and writing skills.
  • Fourth, Developing literate environments. [3]

UNESCO has also created a strategy for youth and adult literacy (2020-2025) that includes four strategic priority areas:

  • First: support member states in formulating their national literacy policies and strategies; the member states include 20 countries with a literacy rate of less than 50% and the 9 countries where the largest number of non-literate adults live.
  • Second: Addressing the learning needs of disadvantaged groups, particularly women and girls
  • Third: Leveraging digital technologies to expand access and improve learning outcomes.
  • Fourth: Monitoring progress and assessment of literacy skills and programs. [4]

UNESCO Literacy Awards

The UNESCO International Literacy Prizes have been awarded since 1967. In order to honor the contributions made by institutions, organizations, or individuals in the framework of literacy. [1]
Through these awards, also seek to support effective literacy practices and encourage the advancement of dynamic literacy communities.

There are currently two International Literacy Awards, namely:

-The UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize (3 awards): Established in 1989, with the support and funding of the government of the Republic of Korea. This award gives special consideration to mother language-based literacy development.

-The UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy (3 awards): Established in 2005, with the support of the government of the People’s Republic of China. This award gives special consideration to functional literacy, leveraging technological environments, in support of adults in rural areas and out-of-school youth.

Each winner of one of these two prizes will receive a medal, a certificate, and prize money (20 thousand US dollars for the winner of the King Sejong prize, and 30 thousand US dollars for the winner of the Confucius Prize.). [5]

Literacy in Syria

Syria has always strived to work on literacy, in 1972 it passed the literacy law. Thus, the illiteracy rate has decreased significantly, as statistics indicate in the past few years that this percentage has decreased from 19% in 2004 to 14.2% in 2007, although this percentage was more than 50% in the late sixties. The governorates of Quneitra, Suwayda, and Tartus were also declared illiteracy-free governorates in 2008.

Many official parties have contributed and continue to contribute to literacy, including the Directorate of adult education and cultural development at the Ministry of culture. In addition to a number of popular organizations such as the women’s Union, the Revolutionary Youth Union, and others. [6]

In conclusion, we would like to point out that based on the goals of our initiative to achieve equality and the advancement of women and their education, we see great importance on this day.

We call on everyone to follow their learning path, not give up and lose hope no matter what happens. There are no limits to what you can achieve.

♀️ Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative aims at sustainable peace building in Syria through targeting women and providing them with free online courses, workshops, discussion sessions and trainings, with a view to achieving the goals of Gender Equality, Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth, which all fall into the interest of society as a whole and serve the purpose of rebuilding it.

References:

[1] UN Observances

[2] UN Education

[3] UNESCO Themes

[4] UNESDOC

[5] UNESCO

[6] Alnnour

[7] UNESCO Articles

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Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi

Woman of History: Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi

Woman of history /
Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi

Woman of History: Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi

One of the pioneering Syrian women who deserved the title of “The Princess of Arab Female Pioneers in the Twentieth Century.”

Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi, pioneer of the women’s movement in Syria and holder of the title “The Princess of Arab Female Pioneers in the Twentieth Century”. [1]

 this title is not granted by historical researchers unless the holder of this title has great and remarkable achievements.
At a time when women used to consider their right to education and decent life as a charity and not a right, a woman, who was not satisfied with taking her rights, appeared and fought to obtain the rights for as many women as possible.

Who is Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi?

Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi was born in Beirut in 1900 into a cultured family. [2]

She gained her share of societal interaction at a time that witnessed the Ottoman occupation in the last days of its glory and Turkish tyranny at its most intense.
During her upbringing in an educated family that respects intellect, she received her education at the German “Deaconess” Institute, and her Arabic language teacher was the scholar Sheikh Abdullah Al-Bustani. [2]

Adila got married to Prince Abd al-Qadir Al-Jazairi and lived in Damascus. [2]
She gave birth to two children; Amal and Zain al-Abidin. [3]
However, this did not stop Adila’s from resisting but rather strengthened it hoping that she would leave a better world for her children.

She resorted to the press and literature to fight against colonial attempts to obliterate the Arabic language, the Turkification and Francization attempts, and to resist all forms of oppression and violence. She wrote lines of the struggle against injustice and the deprivation of rights in general, and appealed for women’s rights in particular.

Not only did she struggle on a local level, but also expanded her work to include the Arab and international world, so that she became the destination of many fighters and pioneers of liberation with the aim of cooperation to achieve the unified goal.

Most important stages of Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi’s life

From a young age, she participated in the march towards the supreme goal. She rushed at the age of sixteen as a volunteer to serve the afflicted, providing them with food, medicine, and clothing. She became involved in a society exhausted by decadence and tyranny through secret societies calling for Arabism and independence. [3]

Adila got educated within a society that did not believe in the importance and necessity of women’s education at that time. Therefore, she co-founded the “Arab Women’s Awakening Society” alongside her fellow fighters in 1915. [2]

Their goal was to spread national and Arab feminist awareness and to demand the education of girls whose circumstances have stood in the way of their education. Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi wrote her articles in “Al-Fata Al-Arabi” and “Al-Mufeed” newspapers, and published them under the pseudonym “The Arab Girl”.

In 1916, she headed a committee supervising the House of Industry, which participated in providing free meals to about 1,800 female workers working in several industries such as weaving, spinning, and handicrafts.[3]
 Then in 1920, as the situation escalated from the French occupation to the Maysaloon War, she concentrated all her efforts on demanding the complete independence of the Arab countries. Hence, Adila Bayhum supported the resistance using all the available means. 

She participated in many demonstrations and contributed to providing food, clothing, and treatment to the fighting revolutionaries. Despite the tyranny of occupation, mandate, and instability on all fronts, Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi did not neglect the rights of women – the oppressed party – and struggled during conflicts and victories to obtain women’s rights.

During the following years, with the help of her fellow female fighters, they established many associations and organizations, and opened schools. She gave seminars and participated in dialogues with activists and heads of other associations about allowing women to take their rightful place in society with all the entailed burdens, whether economic, military, or societal.

Among her most prominent works

She laid the cornerstone for the Arab Feminist Union and was elected its president, due to her mastery of the French and German languages. Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi demanded the right of Women’s suffrage and nomination.

She submitted a memorandum to President Gamal Abdel Nasser, demanding that women be trained in the military. She represented Syria on the UN Women’s Rights Committee more than once. [3]

The female activists who advocated for Adila in her case

That period of time was full of struggle and rush to obtain full rights, restore all lands, and liberate all detainees. Therefore, all the female fighters rushed in search of a way for their voices to be heard, and the most supportive of Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi in her struggle was her daughter, Amal Al-Jazairi. This is because she stood by her mother and was her companion, and even completed the course of struggle after her. Then there was, of course, Nazik al-Abid, the great female fighter who stood up against both the Ottoman and French occupations. Besides, the educated women of society such as Mrs. Badia Orfali, Jihan Al-Mawsili, Rima Kurd Ali Al-Azma, Suad Halabi, Olfat Idlebi, and many other female writers and fighters. [1]

The Recognition of her efforts

In 1975, Mrs. Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi has awarded the Syrian Order of Civil Merit – Excellent Class, in recognition of her work and struggle in the field of women’s rights and the renaissance of the local community. This coincided with the recognition of the International Women’s Year, but she passed away before receiving the medal. Thus, It was received on her behalf by her daughter and partner in social struggle, Mrs. Amal Al-Jazairi Hawash, during the great memorial ceremony.

That ceremony was held for her by the Women’s Union in the amphitheater of Damascus University On the occasion of 40 days after her death. [3]
In commemoration of Mrs. Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi, President Hafez Al-Assad instructed the New Girls High School to be named after her in the Al-Muhajireen neighborhood, next to her former residence. [2]

We, at the Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative, recognize the struggle and efforts of Adila Bayhum Al-Jazairi and her colleagues, and we hope these efforts will not be lost in vain. Therefore, through our platform, we seek to contribute to pushing the convoy and directing the path towards the goals set by their efforts.

Also Read: Julia Domna.

♀️ Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative aims at sustainable peace building in Syria through targeting women and providing them with free online courses, workshops, discussion sessions and trainings, with a view to achieving the goals of Gender Equality, Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth, which all fall into the interest of society as a whole and serve the purpose of rebuilding it.

References:

[1] SWD

[2] Marefa

[3] Wikipedia

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International Day of Charity

International Day of Charity

International Celebration /
International Day of Charity

International Day of Charity

Did you know that the greatest beneficiary of the good you do is you before anyone else? We feel that everything we do is a drop in a wide ocean, but the vast ocean will decrease if that drop is lost from it.
– Mother Teresa Denny (1910 – 1997) [1]

This is what Mother Teresa said, who devoted her life to philanthropy and helping people and has become a role model for peace to this day. [2]

In this context, the former Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, said that philanthropy is one of the best investments we can make for our common future. He called on people everywhere to be part of the United Nations’ 15-year partnership, which aims to make sustainable development a reality for all , for humanity, and to help the marginalized and the poor rise out of want and suffering. [3]

How Does Charity Affect Society and Individuals?

And because the ocean is nothing but drops, and every drop makes a difference – as Mother Teresa said – the charity has many benefits, the most important of which are:

Philanthropy, like volunteerism and charity, offers the opportunity to strengthen social bonds and contribute to creating more inclusive and resilient societies. Philanthropy has the potential to offset the harms of humanitarian crises. It also has the capacity to support public services in the areas of medical care, education, housing, and child protection. Charitable work has a very essential role in improving culture, science, sports, and protecting cultural heritage. As well as promoting the rights of the marginalized and the deprived and spreading the humanitarian message in conflict situations.

Charitable work also has a positive impact on all individuals who work in it through its quest to achieve several things, the most important of which are: Activating participation among people, reducing the impact of poverty, developing an internal sense of responsibility towards those in need, and notifying them of their ability to give. [3]

Charity Within the Framework of Organization and Planning

The United Nations has set an agenda for sustainable development goals, which can be framed in four areas: people, planet, prosperity, peace, and partnership. Presents concepts that seek to empower individuals to better contribute to the betterment of our world.

By adopting the 2030 Development Agenda in September 2015, the United Nations recognized that the eradication of poverty in all its forms, forms, and dimensions is an enormous global challenge and an indispensable requirement for achieving sustainable development.

That agenda calls for strengthening the spirit of global solidarity. It focuses mainly on the needs of the weakest and the poorest. It also recognizes the role of the diversified private sector. From micro-enterprises to cooperatives, to multinational corporations. It also recognizes the role played by civil society and charitable organizations in implementing the new agenda. [3]

Obstacles Against Charity Around the World and within our country

The United Nations and international institutions face real difficulties in activating charitable work, including the lack of funding, the lack of culture in the concept of volunteering and its importance, the weakness of attracting volunteers, the impact of international political relations and their problems on coordinating charitable efforts between countries, in addition to what is related to the organizational structure and the professional level of workers in those organizations.

There are also problems related to the organizational structure, such as the weakness of institutional building in general, the control of some individuals over activities and funding, and the lack of compatibility between administrative structures and the objectives of the organization.

Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative and Charity

At the local level, charitable works in Syria varied in their official or non-affiliated forms, online or on the ground. Among them, we mention our initiative, the Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative, established in 202, which is concerned with Syrian women of all ages, and recently some of its services have expanded to include males to benefit from the workshops and courses.

It is worth mentioning that the Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative is a non-profit, educational, and awareness-raising digital initiative that aims to help Syrian women, of all ages, expertise or beliefs, meet their goals no matter how far-fetched.

Among our most important services currently offered are:

  • Free educational courses for specialties that can be mastered online.
  • Free workshops aiming to help access the labor market
  • Interactive discussion sessions via livestreaming or Google Meet addressing issues of concern to women; Syrian women in particular.
  • Awareness-Raising Posts.
  • Training courses on scientific research and debate.

Also read: International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition.

♀️ Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative aims at sustainable peace building in Syria through targeting women and providing them with free online courses, workshops, discussion sessions and trainings, with a view to achieving the goals of Gender Equality, Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth, which all fall into the interest of society as a whole and serve the purpose of rebuilding it.

References:

[1] Hekam

[2] UN News

[3] UN Observances

[4] Medad Center

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Menopause depression

Menopause Depression

Psychological Health /
Menopause depression

Menopause Depression

Do you have any idea what your mom, your wife, or every woman in your life is going through of mental stresses and physiological changes during what we call “Menopause?”

Menopause is a natural physiological phase that every woman goes through at a certain age, and no doubt it’s not an easy experience as it points to several things such as the pause of the ability to reproduce, the reach of old age, and hormonal changes.

In addition to many other symptoms such as anxiety and hot flashes that vary in their intensity between one woman and another. That is why many people call this phase a wrong name and we aim to change that “menopause”.

The previous factors combined with other factors that we will mention later in the article, in causing the so-called “menopausal depression”.

What is menopausal depression and what are its symptoms?

Firstly; Depression is a mental health condition that affects a woman’s feelings, thoughts, and behavior, causing her to feel sad, empty, and unable to enjoy activities she previously enjoyed, and problems with memory, appetite, and sleep may be noticed. Some studies have indicated that the risk of depression increases by 2-5 times during the period associated with menopause compared to the previous years. [1]

Women notice several symptoms, including irritability, anxiety, panic attacks, crying bouts, insomnia, [2] forgetfulness, low confidence, and lack of concentration. [3]

What are the causes that may lead to depression of menopause?

Studies have not been able to determine the main causes of this depression, but there are some auxiliary factors, including:

  1. Physiological factors: A sudden change in the level of hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, may affect a woman’s mood because they mainly affect neurotransmitters such as serotonin and adrenaline, which control the mood of humans. [1] The risk increases with other pre-existing disorders such as postpartum depression, menstrual disorders, or a family history of depression. [1]
    In addition, the physical symptoms accompanying menopause, such as insomnia, night sweats, and hot flashes greatly affect a woman’s mood. [2]
  2. Psychological and social factors: These include the woman’s view of the environment of menopause as aging and a loss of youth and femininity, in addition to the responsibilities that this woman may have in terms of work, family care, or child-rearing, also to her married life, and her lack of social support. [1]
  3. Other health factors: such as going through a midlife crisis that coincides in time with the age of menopause, or depending on her lifestyle; From smoking, alcohol, exercising and undergoing surgeries that cause early menopause, such as removing the ovaries. [1]

Is there a cure for this disorder? 

Of course, and as a treatment for depression in general, medication therapy and cognitive behavioral psychotherapy should be combined; As medication therapy, it usually includes serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

While psychological treatment is carried out under the supervision of a psychologist, according to the condition of the woman and the severity of her symptoms, [1]there are complementary therapies such as exercise, quitting smoking or alcohol, cutting back on caffeine, and practice yoga, meditation or hypnosis. [2] There is also Hormones Replacement Therapy HRT. [3]

Finally; It is important for you to realize that the psychological symptoms associated with menopause are just as important as the physical symptoms, so do not hesitate to seek professional help when you notice them.

From the Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative, we’ll tell you: that menopause is the age at which you decide to stop loving, feeling happy, and giving,for yourself in the first place, which will positively affect everything around you. You are not that age nor this body, you are this brave soul that does not fear progress, and does not stop loving, so take care.

Also read: Social Anxiety Disorder.

♀️ Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative aims at sustainable peace building in Syria through targeting women and providing them with free online courses, workshops, discussion sessions and trainings, with a view to achieving the goals of Gender Equality, Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth, which all fall into the interest of society as a whole and serve the purpose of rebuilding it.

References:

[1] Medical News Today

[2] PUB Med

[3] NHS Information

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Cyberbullying and Cyber Harassment - In Disguise Crimes

Cyberbullying and Harassment- In Disguise Crime

Social and Humanitarian Issues /
Cyberbullying and Cyber Harassment - In Disguise Crimes

Cyberbullying and Cyber Harassment - In Disguise Crimes

Cyber-bullying and Cyber-harassment, how can we prevent technology from turning into a dangerous tool used to control or end someone’s life from behind screens?

Cyberbullying and cyber harassment are manifestations that we have heard about and seen happen without having a clear reaction other than anger and condemnation. The occurrence of such a thing cannot be a reason to hide and be afraid. Every individual who is exposed to cyberbullying and cyber harassment should disclose these crimes and not be afraid of them. With the progress of life and the development that we are witnessing in the world of cybercrime, the penalties for these crimes are found within the law and are applied to the perpetrators. Therefore, failure to seek help can lead the victims of these crimes to anxiety, depression, and in other cases, suicide.

Cyberbullying and Cyber Harassment

Although cyberbullying and cyber harassment usually appear as new phenomena related to devices and social media. However, they are considered an extension of the bullying and harassment that occurs on the roads, parking lots, markets, and others.

UNICEF defines cyberbullying as “Cyberbullying is bullying with the use of digital technologies. It can take place on social media, messaging platforms, gaming platforms, and mobile phones. It is repeated behavior, aimed at scaring, angering or shaming those who are targeted.” [1]

Sexual harassment was first mentioned in 1973 by researcher Mary Roy in a report for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Since that time, definitions have varied. The definition of Cyber Harassment has become “the use of the Internet or modern means of communication to communicate with a female against her will by using words, insinuations, or images of a sexual nature that may lead to her being exposed to psychological or physical harm” [2, P.6]

Effects of Cyberbullying and Cyber Harassment on Individuals

Research indicates that up to 7 in 10 young people have experienced online abuse at some point, one in three victims of bullying have self-harmed as a result, and 1 in 10 has attempted suicide. [3]
Online violence, cyberbullying, and digital harassment affect over 70 percent of young people globally, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said, calling for concerted action to tackle and prevent this form of violence.[4]

The effects of cyberbullying and cyber harassment cannot be limited to anxiety and fear only. There are many stories around the world of people committing suicide due to cyberbullying.

Cyberbullying can cause much harm to the mental and physical health of victims. Overthinking and worrying can lead to depression and sleep deprivation. This causes physical exhaustion and an inability to perform daily tasks with the same vigor. Bullying can also reduce the victim’s trust in others and keep him away from social contact with his surroundings. In addition, it can cause loss of appetite and neglect of food, which makes the health of the body very poor.

Cyber ​​harassment differs from physical harassment in that there is no obvious physical contact between the offender and the victim. Yet, this does not mean underestimating its harmful effects, which can cause a lot of psychological harm to women. “Cyber harassment” causes great psychological and social harm to the victim, no less than being physically harassed, while the harasser remains – in most cases – unpunished as a result of the coverage provided by his hiding – most of the time – under fake names on the Internet. [5]

Stories and facts

The harmful effects of cyberbullying and cyber harassment cannot be proven until we hear the truth from the victims. There have been many stories on the Internet of victims of these crimes. In order for all to have a place to express their fears, here are some of the common stories:

  1. Lamees. S, a Syrian college student, tells the story of her exposure to an attempt of blackmail and cyber harassment from a person who presented himself as a researcher and hacked a research project she was preparing. The student said: “I contacted a page that provides services to college students and helps them with research, to get to know someone who pledged paid assistance.” She adds, “The story started naturally, as he was asking me for information in order to complete the research better. Then he started repeating the request to meet under the pretext of completing the research to the fullest, and here I started to feel that the situation is taking a different turn.” After a while, the person asked the student to open the camera on the pretext of completing the research, which Lamis responded to, only to be surprised that the man appeared with a completely inappropriate view, and spoke to her with indecent words. Lamis says: “I didn’t know how to disconnect, I was very confused, then as soon as I hung up the phone, I received a video recording of the call, in which I seem to accept the situation.” She adds: “the person, who seemed respectful at first, started blackmailing me, and threatening me to publish the recording if I did not respond to his requests, that we enter into a relationship and then demand thousands of dollars. The blackmail continued for “tough” days for the college student, who told her sister and brother to seek help to get out of trouble. Lamees refused to reveal how she got rid of this predicament, which had troubled her life for days and nights because it was not easy, she said. [6]
  2. Another story is for Cassie from the UK. “When I was 13 I started talking online to someone who said she was a model,” says Cassie. She started getting to know me and had me send pictures to her without clothes, to convince me to turn into a model like her. She threatened me with pictures if I would not do what she wanted. She asked me to send my address and other information in order to meet her manager. The next day a man came to my house, sexually assaulted me, and took pictures of everything. I didn’t know what to do and didn’t want to tell the police because I thought the police would say I was wasting their time. I started hurting and neglecting myself. Six months later, the police called me after arresting the criminal, as it turned out that he had committed similar crimes. The depression and anxiety persisted throughout my teenage years, and I took two overdoses. I didn’t get counseling until I was twenty-two. That’s when I decided what had happened didn’t have to define me and it really helped that I had a sense that justice had been done. Without that, it would have been more difficult to recover.” [7]

We all know similar stories of people and celebrities who have been bullied by the public and end up lonely, depressed, and sometimes committing suicide.
At Uplifting Syrian Women, we have a place where everyone can express their feelings and problems. We cannot hold the criminal accountable. Yet, we can support and encourage victims to report the crime to those responsible and not be afraid. Here in this place, we have created a safe environment for everyone.

Also read: Violence Against Women.

♀️ Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative aims at sustainable peace building in Syria through targeting women and providing them with free online courses, workshops, discussion sessions and trainings, with a view to achieving the goals of Gender Equality, Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth, which all fall into the interest of society as a whole and serve the purpose of rebuilding it.

References:

[1] UNICEF

[2] Academia

[3] UN Chronicle

[4] UN News

[5] STJ- SY

[6] Syria TV

[7] Globalcitizen

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International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition

International Celebration /
International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition

In the Islands of the Caribbean on August 23, 1791, a major incident occurred that changed the course of a large number of people’s lives, which prompted the United Nations to move and take measures that would limit what was happening. What was that incident?

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition

The slave trade is considered one of the most heinous acts practiced against human beings because one of the things that no human being should ask for or seek is Freedom. It is created by humans and has existed since its inception. It is unfair and unjust to deprive anyone of freedom. Enslavement, the least that can be said about it, is a crime. Rather, it is more than that, to transform a person of blood and soul, who resembles you in everything except the criminal and barbarous thinking way, which gives you the permission to violate the freedom and lives of others and turn them into material things that you can own and sell them under the name of the Slave Trade. From all that has been presented and to be able to get acquainted with the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, we must first know who the slave is.

Who is the slave?

A slave is every person who has been deprived of their liberty, and over whom any or all of the powers attaching to the right of ownership are exercised, who is of servile status, and to whom all forms of exploitation and servitude are applied. [1]

Those slaveholders were not satisfied with enslaving individuals only, but also reached a stage where they practiced trade under the name of the slave trade.

What is the slave trade?

The term slave trade means and includes all acts involved in the capture, acquisition, or disposal of a person with the intent to reduce him to slavery; all acts involved in the acquisition of a slave with a view to selling or exchanging him; all acts of disposal by sale or exchange of a person acquired with a view to being sold or exchanged; and, in general, every act of trade or transport in slaves by whatever means of conveyance.[1]

This was common until recently when the Haitian revolution took place, which drew the attention and interest of societies to this phenomenon and mobilized efforts to combat it.

What happened in Haiti?

Haiti is one of the Caribbean islands. It was discovered by explorer Christopher Columbus in 1492, and because it was a region rich in natural resources and gold, the ambitions were directed to it. It was occupied by the Spaniards who turned it into a Spanish colony and then the French occupied it in 1696. In an atmosphere of oppression and exploitation, the French brought a large number of Africans and black people as slaves to work in Haiti, so that the number of slaves and serfs far exceeded the population, and in light of this treatment and enslavement, a revolution had to take place against the French by the Africans and headed by Toussaint Levierre in 1791. The island gained its independence in 1804, and this uprising is recorded as the first revolution In the modern history of black slaves. [2]

Reason for the adoption of the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition

This day is commemorated in the context of the events on the night of August 23, 1791 (the start of the revolution), which played a crucial role in the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. [3]

The Executive Board of UNESCO adopted Resolution 29 C/40 during its twenty-ninth session, regarding the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, at the invitation of the Director-General of UNESCO on 29 July 1998. [3]

Also read: World Humanitarian Day.

Importance of the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition

The commemoration of this day every year plays an important role in inscribing and consolidating the tragedy of the slave trade in the memory of all peoples. It is also hoped that this day should offer an opportunity for collective consideration of the historic causes, the methods, and the consequences of this tragedy, and for an analysis of the interactions to which it has given rise between Africa, Europe, and the Americas, and the Caribbean. [4]

“All over the world, people of African descent continue to suffer daily from the dire consequences of this ominous legacy” – Director-General, Audrey Azoulay | UNESCO [4]

Society’s position on the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition

This day is receiving attention from various countries in the world, and it was celebrated for the first time in a group of countries, foremost of which is Haiti and Goure Island in Senegal, and several cultural events and seminars were organized in this regard, and the Mulhouse Textile Museum in France participated in 2001 in the form of a workshop for fabrics called “Indiennes de Traite” (a type of calico) which served as currency for the exchange of slaves in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. [3]

Position of the Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative

Uplifting Syrian Women initiative, in accordance with its ultimate goal of achieving peace, strongly condemns all those heinous practices that were taking place against humanity, and through its participation in the commemoration of the slave trade and its abolition, calls on the international community to continue working for the freedom of all individuals who are still suffering from this tragedy till this day and to oppose everyone who violates the freedom of the other and practices slave trade, hiding behind any term or action.

♀️ Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative aims at sustainable peace building in Syria through targeting women and providing them with free online courses, workshops, discussion sessions and trainings, with a view to achieving the goals of Gender Equality, Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth, which all fall into the interest of society as a whole and serve the purpose of rebuilding it.

References:

[1] OHCHR

[2] Mawdoo3

[3] UNESCO

[4] UN

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World Humanitarian Day

World Humanitarian Day

International Celebration /
World Humanitarian Day

World Humanitarian Day

Do you think that humanitarian work is a right and a duty? Or luxury? But why is it not an instinct in human nature?

Humanitarian work is the duty of all humanity. The reason for our existence is to invest our strength and uplift ourselves and our world together. In addition to the fact that appreciation is a human need, why should it not be our duty as well? To express appreciation towards all the heroes who did not ask for reward or fame, but tried hard to provide assistance to humanity, out of the principle of their commitment towards their brothers in humanity.

Definition and origin of humanitarian work

“On World Humanitarian Day, we pay tribute to aid workers everywhere, and commit to doing everything possible to protect them and their vital work.” [1]
-United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres.

On 19 August 2003, a bomb attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, killed 22 humanitarian aid workers, including the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello. Therefore, this day has been dedicated to recognizing the efforts of humanitarian workers and those who have lost their lives due to humanitarian aid. [2]

The Importance of Humanitarian Work

How can we live without extending a helping hand to the other? Sometimes we will extend this helping hand, and sometimes it will be extended to us. This proves the existence of goodness and mercy in humans if they want life to be full of mercy despite all the darkness in which we live and our world witnesses. Therefore, our choice should be the light, because the suffering would increase more if it were not for the initiators who have contributed to help in various fields, including:

Providing care and education for children who lack them. Despite all the development that the planet is witnessing, however, there are still children who do not have access to education due to disasters or poverty.
Humanitarian work plays an important and essential role in securing health care by creating programs to sustain the mental health of those suffering from the crisis.

The role of humanitarian work was also evident during the Covid-19 pandemic, as the United Nations allocated nearly $2 billion to help 51 countries across Asia, Africa, South America and the Middle East.[3]

Humanitarian work in Syria

The crises facing our country have led to the emergence of many humanitarian initiatives, which aim to help children affected by war and help poor families. As for helping Syrian youth to enter the labour market, it has received a large share of these initiatives; some of them provided free courses and workshops to develop the skills required globally to empower young people and prepare them for competition.

Also read: International Youth Day.

The Theme of the World Humanitarian Day 2022

Each year, a specific slogan is dedicated to World Humanitarian Day, to unite all those who defend the human right to lead a dignified life.

The Theme of World Humanitarian Day 2021 was #TheHumanRace which highlighted the direct consequences of the climate emergency on the world’s most vulnerable people and ensured that their suffering and damage to their homes and livelihoods are transferred.

The theme for World Humanitarian Day in 2022 is #ItTakesAVillage”, where personal stories of the heroes of humanity who have done their best in the COVID-19 pandemic will be shared.

Relationship of the Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative to this work

The Uplifting Syrian Women initiative is one of the humanitarian initiatives in Syria that has expressed humanitarian work in its clearest form, as it has been able to help more than 400 women, by providing numerous free workshops and courses to pave the way toward achieving their dreams. In addition, its services were not limited only to Syrian women, but it has provided some of the services to the Syrian man, emphasizing that uplifting and supporting women should be along with the men and their support.

Finally, the Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative believes that all individuals are able to provide assistance, no matter how small, to the other, and this is a necessity and not a job we choose to enjoy or fill our spare time with.

♀️ Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative aims at sustainable peace building in Syria through targeting women and providing them with free online courses, workshops, discussion sessions and trainings, with a view to achieving the goals of Gender Equality, Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth, which all fall into the interest of society as a whole and serve the purpose of rebuilding it.

References:

[1] UN

[2] UN General Assembly

[3] UNODC

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