Social and Humanitarian Issues

The need to stay away from fortune-telling and witchcraft can be summed up in this sentence: “Astrologers lie, even if they tell the truth”.

Predicting and knowing what the future holds for us has been and remains one of the most tempting thoughts for the human soul. As a result, clairvoyance and witchcraft accompanied many civilizations. And the words of fortune-tellers and soothsayers were taken into account in most decisions. Even those related to self-determination. And it remains a matter of interest to this day.

The Origin of Clairvoyance and Witchcraft 

Fortune-telling or “astrology” is known as an innate curiosity and desire in humans. As a result of the individual’s sense of curiosity about the future. Astrology arose because of the sense of security it gives and the ability to reduce fear of the unknown in one way or another, even if it is considered temporary or deceptive.

The idea of seeing the future in a cup of coffee, figuring out how compatible someone is from the letter order of their name, or knowing our own and other people’s traits just by knowing their date of birth can seem charming and fun.

Fortune-telling, Witchcraft, and Clairvoyance In the Past

People have relied on fortune-telling in determining important matters. Including the time of a river flooding, the time of its drying, and the eruption of volcanoes. In addition to the quality of crops, and the cure for diseases that they believed were the work of evil spirits entering the human body. And a means for establishing rituals to address and worship God.¹

The Spread of Clairvoyance and Witchcraft In Our Current Era

The phenomenon of fortune-telling and witchcraft is very widespread in our current era. As it is surrounded by a kind of sanctity and secrecy. Despite its different designations and methods. Hearing the morning horoscopes and knowing what events they will reveal and predict has become a daily morning habit. And a necessity for some before doing any work. Even life and fateful issues. Such as choosing a life partner. This has become dependent on the compatibility of the horoscopes of the two parties. And the point of view of astrologers in the matter.

It is highly noticeable that television channels invite astrologers and clairvoyants to meet with them on most social occasions. In order to take their advice and predictions on crucial issues. And it does not end here; having the media platforms buzzing with their statements and ideas.

The Negative Effects of Fortune-telling, Witchcraft, and Clairvoyance on Societies

Given the prevailing and difficult conditions that people suffer from. Resorting to a fortune teller or astrologer is desirable. Due to its convenience and their belief that its results will be hearing comforting predictions. That may make the person happy and stress-free. Since women in our societies live under difficult circumstances. And expectations that predetermine their choices and arrange their lives. They will, for sure, be more inclined to these matters. A woman needs to hear that everything will be fine. And that may lead her to seek astrology and witchcraft as the solution to her problems.²

These fortune-tellers -regardless of how their names differ- have a popular and mass base that believes in them and their ideas. They constitute a critical focus that may contribute to the spread of false negative rumors and thoughts. This has been proven by various events. In the event of the February 6th, 2023 earthquake that struck Syria and Turkey. They constituted a negative factor in intimidating the population when they spread incorrect rumors. Most of their statements were devoid of any scientific or factual basis. Its goal was to reach the masses and increase their fame only, regardless of the results.

The large spread of such phenomena threatens societies and tackling. Such phenomena come by adopting science, knowledge, and awareness to protect ourselves from drowning in these thoughts and false rumors. This has a direct relationship with the psychological state and the way societies think, compelling us to draw more attention to this issue in order to prompt people to think positively, come up with logical solutions (regardless of the circumstances), and find safety in their actions and words and not from the sayings of the astrologer.³ 

Astronomy and Astrology

The culture of linking astrology with astronomy spread and the astrologer was considered a specialist in the study of space and celestial bodies. However, there are fundamental differences between the two concepts. Astronomy is the science that studies bodies, planets, and space. It divides the sky into 12 astronomical constellations, which are the constellations known to all of us.

Consequently, the birth of children on a specific day of the year makes them a special zodiac sign within this period, as it is determined according to the position of specific star groups around the sun. However, it completely denies the existence of a relationship between the zodiac sign and specific characteristics possessed by those born to this sign. It also denies the idea of the effects of any planet entering this astral group and its reflection, good or bad, on those born in these placements. Not to mention that the astronomer’s studies extend to the study of chemistry, quantum physics, and relativistic theories. Therefore, their statements are based on scientific and accurate experiments.⁴

In conclusion, we have to draw attention to the need to stay away from the words of fortune-tellers and not to rely on clairvoyance and witchcraft in our daily lives given the negative effects it may have on us. It is also better to ensure the authenticity of our sources of information carefully, away from heresies and rumors.

Also read:

• Spinsterhood and Girls’ Lurking Ghost of Marriage
• Disguised Illiteracy
• School Dropout

References:

[1] Almada

[2] Alwatan News

[3] Aljazeera

[4] Mawdoo3

Disguised illiteracy shows a basic level of reading and writing skills with a low level of understanding and analysis. In addition to hiding from and avoiding daily and social activities of a cognitive nature.

We may believe that illiteracy – in its traditional Concept – poses a real threat to future generations. Despite the hard and diligent work by the government systems, institutions, and civil organizations to bridge the gap which is left by illiteracy in educational plans, we are actually facing a bigger and more dangerous dilemma. There is another form of illiteracy, which embodies a fundamental aspect of knowledge and culture with an inability to keep up with cognitive activities, analysis, and understanding of data.

Facts about disguised illiteracy

Disguised illiteracy is a problem with a negative impact on society. “Its danger lies in the fact that the disguised illiterates are unaware of their illiteracy, which means their illiteracy is hidden from themselves as well as others. It also means that disguised illiterates do not fully understand the information and the ideas that are being received, studied, or applied. Their actions, feelings, and beliefs are based on their assumptions, ideas, and unknown misconceptions.”¹

Moreover, according to the United Nations “617 million young people are not achieving minimum proficiency levels in reading and mathematics”² Therefore, it is possible that disguised illiteracy forms a ground for the spread of functional illiteracy represented by economic, educational, and other workplaces.

A person is functionally illiterate and cannot engage in all those activities in which literacy is required for the effective functioning of his group and community.  So, we find that disguised illiteracy has a hand in the dysfunction that society is witnessing.³ Although disguised illiteracy is associated with poverty rates and social background. However, it can lead to social exclusion, lack of self-esteem, lack of development, and social interaction. Soon we will be confronted with the risks of disguised illiteracy in children with undiagnosed dyslexia and dysgraphia.

This is due to the increasing phenomena of begging and their negative intellectual growth on the ground of their exclusion, whether from family or school.

Signs of disguised illiteracy

Perhaps the most prominent feature that disguised illiteracy plants in the soul of disguised illiterate is shame, anxiety about knowledge, and lack of self-confidence. It is also manifested by signs that are usually hidden by disguised illiterates.

Disguised illiteracy in adults is represented by:

• They do not read for pleasure, they also avoid reading loudly.
• They ask someone to read something to them for an excuse that may not be honest (for example, forgetting their glasses).
• They hesitate to read to children.
• They get mad if they are asked to read something and reply that they are not great proofreaders.
• They avoid writing checks, grocery lists, or cards.⁴

Children’s disguised illiteracy signs are as follows:

• They just want to read the books they have read before and they might say that they don’t even like reading.
• They generally mispronounce or misread, especially when reading aloud.
• They guess words instead of pronouncing sounds as they move to an unfamiliar word.
• They look at the listener’s face to see if their reading is correct and correct.
• They get stomach aches, and headaches and have to go to the bathroom when they are asked to read or write, this may be true due to their fear and tension or pretending to do so.
•  A child may misbehave when he is asked to read or write something.⁴

Between silence and stigma

In general, illiterate people feel ashamed and embarrassed about their illiteracy due to the social stigma they are exposed to and the lack of access to their rights. In the case of disguised illiteracy, the illiterate ignores his ignorance and even claims knowledge. This is due to his lack of confidence to keep abreast of developments and knowledge around him, this worsens his psychological state and adversely affects his social performance.

Despite the widespread of this phenomenon, there is still silence around talking about and addressing it. This is due to the problems and issues intertwined with it. The most important method to address disguised illiteracy is to adopt an educational strategy that transfers all individuals at different educational levels from the stage of indoctrination to the interactive stage.

The Role of Society in Confronting disguised illiteracy

Eliminating the problem at its root is more important than addressing the effects of the problem. Considering education as the distorted axis of disguised illiteracy, successful response, and elimination lie in the adoption of the culture of interactive and continuous education. Encouraging self-learning processes, including online learning, is also a good option to catch up.

Such actions cannot be achieved without having social and participatory responsibility. Each individual can help their peers in the process of learning and gaining knowledge. In addition to enabling him to continue using reading, writing, and calculation skills for his personal development and the development of his society.

The goals of the Uplifting Syrian Women initiative are to address illiteracy

Quality education is one of the most important goals that the initiative seeks to achieve through its various services. To empower and promote women in general and Syrian women in particular.

The initiative provides monthly educational courses. These educational courses focus on different disciplines that support the academic education that the girl has received or are currently receiving. Also, for those wishing to learn from scratch, there are always courses for beginners in various fields.

In addition to workshops that help girls to have the necessary skills and tools to enter the labor market. Actually, disguised illiteracy is a multifaceted disaster, both economically and in terms of deteriorating mental and physical health, social isolation, dependence, legal issues, and others.

If education or a family cannot provide a lifeline for the child and enrich his education, There will be a dangerous and terrifying chance for the exploiters to put their ideas and principles in his mind, especially in the current technological era.

So don’t stop learning and Improving yourselves, Contribute to helping our youth, children, and parents and invite them to develop themselves scientifically and cognitively.

Also read:

• Youth Unemployment
• Illegal Migration

• Spinsterhood and Girls’ Lurking Ghost of Marriage

References:

[1] Shafaq

[2] UN

[3] UNESCWA

[4] E3arabi

Like a perched rock in a stream of fresh water, a girl over 40 imagines the state of “spinsterhood” in which she is living. Alone in the room of her parent’s house, while life moves ahead of her without waiting. Her consorts are married, ladies and mothers. That is why she is overwhelmed with longing to be a mother, then gets jealous and pities herself.

She has been called by her small society the term “spinster”. And the women in the neighborhood were afraid of her for their husbands. Despite her fear of not getting married, she still thinks that choosing a life partner is not absurd, but needs a lot of patience and waiting. Perhaps the issue of “spinsterhood” to her was related to personal or professional matters preventing her from getting married or delaying it or to a desire not to marry!

Is it acceptable to describe and call her a “spinster” because of her free decision and choice or because of the will of fate?

The linguistic definition of the word “Spinsterhood”, and the beginnings of its use in describing the phenomenon of “delayed marriage”

The term “spinsterhood” is usually referred to women and men who are late in getting married or who have never been married. For social reasons, the word “spinster” has been associated with women more than men. And spinsterhood in Arabic is the rock in the water that causes slackness, and it is said: “the man is a bachelor”, that is, he grew up and did not get married. A man is called a “confirmed bachelor” if he grows up, reaches the age of marriage, and does not marry.

A woman is considered to be a spinster if she grows up and gets old in her parents’ house.¹ The term “spinster” appeared in ancient Arabic poetry and was intended for men in particular. As the poet ” Abu Qais Ibn Rifaahi” said: “We have the young who have just grown a mustache. And the spinsters and we have the juveniles and the Grays”.¹ The term “spinster” in English, refers to girls who did not get married or were late in marriage, and whose occupation was to spin wool.

The use of this term dates back to before the Industrial Revolution. Whereas “Oxford American Dictionary” puts the word “Spinster” in the “insulting” word box. Which has strong connotations, and cannot be taken in a neutral sense.²

Why was “spinsterhood” connected with a woman’s late age of marriage more than a man’s?

The question remains without a reasonable and satisfying answer, for those who believe in the importance of equality between men and women. Even if it is a matter of setting adjectives depending on the “gender” characteristics.  So if the nature of some societies, their religious, cultural, and social backgrounds and legacies impose discriminatory provisions on women more than men, is it acceptable to give in to them?

On most occasions, a woman is blamed for being a  spinster and is considered a failure in marketing herself or maybe she lacked the qualities that make her desirable for marriage. All meanings included are inaccurate and incorrect, mistaken by the reality scene. It also includes wrong social and cultural concepts that consider women as only a marketable good. While a man who has grown old without marriage is not looked at in the same way. This conflicts with the holistic view of a woman as a full-fledged person.³

The reasons for the aggravation of this phenomenon in Arab Communities

Without a doubt, the reasons for the aggravation of the phenomenon of “spinsterhood ” in Arab Communities are highly associated with social, economic, and political circumstances in these countries. For example: “the percentage of spinsterhood in Syria is rising close to 70%, according to the latest data of the Ministry of Social Affairs. The reasons are multiple, on top of which are war, migration, poverty, and the reluctance of young people to marry in all Syrian regions.”⁴

Based on the ministry’s statistics, about 3 million single Syrian women are over thirty. The percentage of spinsterhood in Syria is close to 70%, according to local social standards.”⁴ The reasons for the aggravation of the phenomenon of “spinsterhood” varies among the rest of the Arab countries. This is based on purely economic and social factors, such as expensive dowries, unemployment, and the intervention of the girl’s parents in deciding her destiny.

In addition, many women in the Arab world managed to achieve financial independence, and are convinced of the failure of the marriage institution. The reluctance of some men and women to marry, for personal reasons, represented some of them In finding the idea of a relationship “out of marriage” appealing.

“Unfair” and controversial term for women!

The use of the term “spinsterhood”, in describing the situation of a woman’s delay in starting a marriage, established the injustice imposed on her by society. Considering this discriminatory description, the extremism, hyperbole and antagonism against her seem obvious.

The term “spinsterhood” has successfully created and provoked great controversy among civil society, organizations, institutions, and individuals defending women’s rights. And also within the reactionary currents that want women in the image formed by the emerged legacies from the womb of ideas and beliefs, which do not fit the position of women in the modern era.

Reluctance to marry, escaping from spinsterhood

Between “shadow of a man, not shadow of a wall” and ” we got married for shelter”. In some Arabic folk Proverbs, we find a sincere expression of the lurking fear in the girl’s soul from the ghost of spinsterhood or marriage. The proverb: “shadow of a man, not shadow of a wall” is a description of the suspicious status of the girls who are skeptical of the idea of not marrying or being with a man. The proverb: “we got married for shelter, God bless, the days of the scandal,” is a clear image of the failure of a marriage, which one’s hope was built upon. 

Between the proverb and the current reality, which is different from what was the condition for women at the time of the invention and authorship of these proverbs, there is no harm in admitting that the phenomenon of” spinsterhood ” – with its causes and problems – still haunts some societies. But the treatment of “spinsterhood” is possible, by eliminating the grounds, through various means, the most important of which is to empower and uplift women, and change the stereotype about them.

Also read:

• Youth Unemployment.
• Illegal Migration.
• Crimes Against Child Victims.

References:

[1] Wikipedia

[2] Wikipedia

[3] Aljazeera

[4] Alaraby

Clear indicators of deteriorating educational conditions are high crime rates, the spread of poverty, and many others. But the most dangerous of these indicators – which can be both a cause and an effect – is a school dropout.

This issue is one of the most serious problems a nation can encounter because it is a glaring indicator of poor living conditions, not to mention its detrimental effects on society, including the spread of ignorance and begging, as well as the disastrous outcomes that will manifest in the near and long term.

The Definition of School Dropout

The school dropout phenomenon is defined as the student’s interruption and non-completion of education. It is considered one of the most dangerous phenomena that are widely spread in various societies, as it affects children negatively and abstracts the growth and development of society in different areas of life. [1]
In order to address the phenomenon of school dropout, it is necessary to shed light on the factors that lead to it.

Causes

The main causes of school dropouts are as follows:

• The deterioration of the economic situation:
  Economic conditions play a major factor in the spread of this problem in any country, and the high cost of education is undeniable. It is true that enrollment in public schools in many countries is free, but the cost of school supplies and the need for private lessons often increase the cost of education to a great extent, which is challenging for parents, especially if there is more than one student in the family.
• Child labor:
  Poor economic conditions push many parents to utilize their children as laborers rather than allowing them to exercise their right to education. This not only deprives children of their right to education but also forces them to perform arduous professions because they do not have a degree and these professions do not correspond with their abilities and age.
• Neglect in schools:
  Negligence is widespread in schools, especially public ones, with regard to the issue of school dropouts. This is due to the lack of care many teachers, principals, and mentors have for students who drop out of school because they feel it has become a common occurrence in our communities or that it doesn’t directly affect them.
• Educational principles in schools:
  Recently, many teachers prefer to take the easy way of helping and supporting outstanding students to provide them with opportunities and possibilities for success. This is accompanied by teachers forgetting their primary role in supporting disadvantaged students. That is because of school dropouts, as they often attribute characteristics to such students that make them feel useless going to school, which then becomes a place associated with negative feelings such as feeling inferior and not being welcomed.
• Outcomes of school commitment:
  The situation of graduates in many countries, especially Arab ones, has a direct impact on the way children and their families view school. When graduates’ financial situations are discussed frequently and the challenges they encounter finding jobs paying a good wage, parents’ and even students’ opinions of education generally shift. It makes them see studying as a failed investment of time and financial resources. Therefore, they prefer to shorten the path – according to their words – and follow other methods that may guarantee them a more stable future in their view compared to what may be included in the study, and this matter encourages school dropouts.
• Underage marriages:
  Child marriage is a widespread problem in Arab society in general and Syrian society in particular. Many families resort to this matter because of outdated cultural legacies, in addition to using poor economic conditions as a reasonable excuse, according to society, for child trafficking. Unfortunately, at the local level, the war had the greatest role in reinforcing the causes of school dropouts. In fact, it was a major cause of school dropouts in many Syrian regions.

School Dropout Risks

Dropping out of school entails many risks, such as:

• High crime rate due to neglecting children and leaving them vulnerable to situations that could make them easy victims for criminals. At the same time, inadequate ideals are planted in them that prepare them to become criminals in the future.
• The scientific and social advances of a society regressing and descending into ignorance. To overcome social ignorance, society must adopt a culture of study, which goes beyond simply learning facts.
• It must be noted that children’s distance from the school atmosphere – which should be an example of social and cultural diversity – makes them confined to a closed environment, which leads to the emergence of intolerant individuals who are not accepting of others.

Proposed Solutions to Reduce this Phenomenon

The solutions lie in the hands of the law. Clear laws and severe penalties must be put in place for anyone who prevents a child from completing his education.

It is also important to apply the following:

• Teachers monitor all students with the same level of interest.
• Providing the necessary tools for free education within schools in order to make education available to all and to reduce the phenomenon of school dropouts.
• Provide salaries commensurate with the teachers’ efforts, in order to ensure the quality of their work, and prevent private lessons in general.
• Enforce strict punishment with regard to child labor and child marriage to prevent parents from exploiting their children.
• Improving the general economic situation of citizens.
• Providing job opportunities for fresh graduates, which gives motivation to children and their families to take an interest in education and study.

School Dropout in Syria

Although there are laws that support compulsory and free education and criminalize child labor, such as:

1. Article 36 of Law No. 21 of 2021 prevents child labor under the age of fifteen. It tries to achieve suitable working conditions for children over the age of fifteen. [2]
2. Article 6 of the same previous law states: “Every child has the right to enjoy public rights and freedoms, and to obtain protection and care without any discrimination based on gender, origin, race, color, language, religion, or any other basis.” [2]
3. Article 2 of Law No. 7 of 2012 states: “All parents of Syrian children (male and female) whose children are between 6-15 years old are required to enroll their children in basic education schools.” [3]

Unfortunately, all the previous laws are not applied on the ground, and therefore we see that the phenomenon of school dropout is still widespread. Aspects of discrimination between male and female children remain unsupervised, except rarely, in addition to children working under arduous and difficult conditions, even for those who are older than them.

According to the United Nations report for the year 2021: “Inside Syria, there are more than 2.4 million children who suffer from school dropouts, and about 40% of them are girls, and this number may increase in 2020 due to the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic, which has exacerbated the disruption of education in Syria.” One out of every three schools inside Syria has been destroyed or damaged, which has led to a decrease in the number of schools compared to the number of attending students.

Children who are able to attend school often learn in overcrowded classrooms, and in buildings without sufficient water and sanitation facilities, electricity, heating or ventilation. The United Nations is able to confirm nearly 700 attacks on education facilities and personnel in Syria since the investigation of grave violations against children began. Last year, 52 attacks were confirmed. [4]

In our initiative, we realize that building and protecting the homeland stems from building an educated and cultured society. This is what drives us to make science accessible to all, and to work together to reduce the phenomenon of school dropouts, especially among women. In an attempt to reach all those who have not been fortunate in education for one of the aforementioned reasons, school dropout is a clear problem in our society. Thinking that this problem is small and unimportant leads to exacerbation. The only way to a better future is to be eager to teach and educate future generations. It is our responsibility as individuals to inform parents and kids about the negative effects of dropping out of school and assist them in making the best choice.

Also read:

• Youth Unemployment.
• Illegal Migration.
• Crimes Against Child Victims.

References:

[1] Mawdoo3

[2] SANA

[3] Parliament Government

[4] Relief Web

Youth unemployment is one of the most pressing problems we’re facing today, and it is present in almost all societies. In addition to being an economic problem that faces the younger generation, it is also a psychological, social, and political problem. Thus, it threatens the stability of nations and countries.

Vladimir Drobnjak, Vice-President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council, said: “Ensuring sufficient employment opportunities and decent work for all are the most pressing challenges that countries face today.”  [1]

What is Unemployment?

Unemployment is the inability to get a job opportunity despite constantly searching for one while having the ability to work. It is an economic phenomenon that arose from the imbalance between the demand rate and the available opportunities.

Since 1975, unemployment has become an essential part of the economic landscape as it cannot be separated from it. A limit called the “Natural Unemployment Rate” has been set, which cannot be decreased without causing inflation in the country. Not everyone who does not work is considered unemployed because they must be actively searching and seeking to obtain one. Students, pupils, and everyone who does not search for or want a job and has given away the idea of ​​work are not considered unemployed. [2]

Unemployment in the Arab Region

Arab countries came in first place with the highest youth unemployment rates in the world. Unemployment rates in the Arab region are near twice the global average, and they increased 2.5 times faster than the global average between 2010 and 2021, which greatly depletes the region’s economic potential. Therefore, this region is unable to use its youth’s full potential or benefit from them to achieve economic growth, stability, and peace.

Accordingly, the Arab region needs to find and create 33.3 million job opportunities by 2030 to reduce the unemployment rate to 5%. One of the most important reasons behind these results is the educational systems and the current curricula. Because it does not commensurate with the developments and progress that influence the job market and do not teach the youth any effective skill that leads them to success in light of the current economy. [3]

Unemployment of Young Women in the Arab Region

The high unemployment rate among young women in the Arab region is a severe problem affecting and disabling society as a whole. And by comparing the unemployment rate among men and women, we notice a large difference between them. The unemployment rate for women reached about 47.9%, while for men, it was 23.2%!

This difference is part of the large gap in the rates. By examining this problem, it becomes clear that there are many reasons behind it such as the social and cultural restrictions that women suffer from. Including the lack of commitment to achieving gender equality, which constituted a major reason for the problem.

All these aspects were a major obstacle to women’s choices and forced them to choose specific educational branches more than others, thus tightening their restrictions and shackles under the name of “unsuitable professions for women”.  That prevented women from engaging in work and educational attainments in places that are considered, as they claim, only suitable for men. [4]

Unemployment in Syria

The problem of unemployment in the Syrian economy is rooted in it for decades. However, with the outbreak of war and the deterioration of the economy, this problem became a lot more severe. The war in Syria led to great destruction and imposed heavy costs on the country over the past decade. And the unemployment rate, which was 20% in 2010, increased to 78% in 2015! [5]

In this critical status of today’s Syrian economy, serious and effective steps must be taken to solve the unemployment crisis. By focusing on increasing investment rates in the Syrian economy. In addition to improving market conditions, raising the level of human development as well as scientific and technological development in all economic branches. [6]

Solutions suggested by the United Nations

• Creating job opportunities, especially for women. By monitoring the number of opportunities available from each investment, and enlisting tax barriers. This will help secure a diversified and balanced economic basis which enables a fair distribution to achieve economic growth. [4]
• Raising awareness of the importance of linking education and the job market, in addition to working towards improving the education systems. [3]
• Gender equality and social evolution. This is done by confronting the widespread and false social beliefs that prevent young women from entering the world of work. [4]
• Working to shed a light on the leading female figures in society. This aims to encourage and support young women in progressing and entering the job market, in addition to highlighting and educating them about their rights. [4]
• Having young people learn life skills would contribute to promoting positive values ​​related to their rights. This, in turn, will consolidate the idea of ​​gender equality, which will reflect positively on individuals and societies. It also makes societies more able to solve the problems they face, such as unemployment and economic collapse.

The Contribution of the Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative in Eliminating Unemployment

Uplifting Syrian Women initiative believes in the right of every individual to have a work opportunity, especially women, away from the influence of gender in education and work fields. And through its activities, it is keen to provide young people with effective skills that enable them to enter the job market. Because the benefit will reflect not only on the individual but on society as a whole. It will also be a critical step toward achieving sustainable peace on the ground.

♀️ 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.

Also read:

• What is homelessness and how can it be limited?
• Honour Crime.
• Women’s Employment.

References:

[1] UN News

[2] Aljazeera

[3] UNICEF

[4] ESCWA

[5] Arab Reform

[6] Syrian Researchers

Domestic violence is a problem that is still facing various societies to this day. Despite all progress in human protection laws and the adoption of international laws that criminalize violence-based practices. We want to bring this issue to light because of its importance and gravity.

If the home is filled with violent practices instead of safety and love, this violence will affect every family member, big or small.

What is domestic violence and what are its types?

Domestic violence is defined by the United Nations as “a type of behavior that is used to gain or retain power and control over a partner. Violence is physical, psychological, economic, or in the form of threats against the other party. These are acts of intimidation, manipulation, injury, or insult to the other party. Domestic violence can affect anyone, despite their race, gender, religion, financial or educational background.” [1]
There are many forms of domestic violence, some of which we mention:

• Physical Violence: The use of various means that cause physical harm, such as beating, pushing, burning, and many other practices. The consequences of which are severe, and evident and can lead to disruption of the senses or even death. We often see this practice when a husband abuses his wife or when a mother punishes her children.
• Psychological Violence: It is widespread and is one of the forms of violence that is not visible in which the abuser does not always dare to disclose it. It includes swearing, cursing, deprivation of seeing children and family visits, threatening divorce, preventing them from exercising their daily rights, and other things. It affects the individual psychologically and morally.
• Sexual Violence: Any practice that violates the privacy of a person’s body or forces them to perform actions they do not want to achieve sexual arousal.

It is worth noting that the harasser – especially when the target is a child – may be a relative, and this is a common phenomenon. A child who is subjected to this type of domestic violence keeps it secret for fear that those around them will not believe what they say. However, the effects of exposure to this kind of harassment are highly damaging and devastating in the long term. A person can be afraid of sexual intercourse, along with the possibility of depression and other mental illnesses.

Indications of Exposure to Domestic Violence

Perhaps the boundaries between what is considered “normal” in our concepts and what is truly “normal” are blurry. So we would like to share some signs which confirm that someone has been exposed to domestic violence, including When your partner embarrasses you in front of people or mocks your decisions. Prevent you from working and suppress your various freedoms for his/her satisfaction. The presence of physical and psychological effects, such as bruises on the body or traces of burns and blood, or the abuser may appear afraid of the partner and cannot reveal their thoughts.

Effects of Domestic Violence on Women and Children

Violence is a phenomenon that affects individuals and limits them from fulfilling their obligations to society. As the individual lives in a state of depression and anxiety, we see that, especially in women. As many – or perhaps most – societies gave power to the man and entrenched the idea that he is in control and is the ultimate command in his family, have contributed to this matter.

These concepts and stereotypes have implanted – in both men and women – the belief that women are the private property of men. So he can do whatever he likes with it. This idea developed as he began to impose his sovereignty by exploiting his physical strength, so he might beat her and prevent her from working, and so on.

Children are not safe from the consequences of domestic violence either, as it will be a sensitive point for them because of its devastating effects on their lives. Some of these signs may appear in children: 

• Before School Age: The child develops habits such as involuntary urination, stuttering, signs of anxiety, and thumb sucking.
• At School Age: A child who has witnessed domestic violence blames himself. His activities may decrease, he may become more introverted, and find it difficult to make friends.
• In Adolescence: His self-esteem decreases and he engages in some dangerous activities, such as drug and alcohol abuse.
• In The Long Run: A child who has witnessed violence against his mother is ten times more likely to be violent towards his partner in the future. In comparison to someone who did not witness this type of violence in his childhood. In addition, the girl who witnessed her mother being subjected to violence is six times more likely to be a victim of domestic violence than the other children. [2]

The Trust Line Center

The Trust Line Center was established in Syria in 2007 as a mechanism to support victims of domestic violence. It is a method that has proven useful in many countries, and it is based on disclosing complete confidentiality to the callers. The team is equipped with a cadre of psychologists and legal and social experts. In addition to people trained to listen to the complaints of the callers, each case is followed up by the team to deliver it to the land of peace.

Their vision: Reducing domestic violence in Syria.
Their mission: To support victims of domestic violence in Syria.
Their story: Through their realization that “silence will not solve the problem.” Revelation is the first way to discover the pain points, and it is the beginning to reach the weaknesses in the structure of our society. They worked on an idea they believed in and how important it is for a society that is moving towards the best. [3]

Reducing Domestic Violence

This phenomenon must be put to an end and shed light on by holding awareness seminars. As for people who are subjected to violence within their families, they must report this to the competent authorities. And subjecting them to sessions to remove the negative symptoms left behind to free them from their past. In addition to working to strengthen, support, and reintegrate them into society.

The initiative affirms its role in combating domestic violence due to its serious effects that lead to the disintegration of societies. Our initiative also calls for spreading love and peace among family members, as it is the seed that establishes the individual and integrates him into society.

♀️ 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.

Also read:

• Violence against women-has it becomes commonplace and considered an axiom?
• Violence Under The Microscope.

• Verbal Harassment.

References:

[1] UN

[2] Women’s Health

[3] Pen SY

“Violence against women in all its forms is a violation of human rights. It is not something that any culture, religion, or tradition promotes.
– Michelle Bachelet – United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. [1]

Perhaps the abundance of violence against women will turn it into an entrenched societal trait and make us to ignore its consequent damage. A lot of women have been subdued by society and were subjected to various forms of violence, to the point where they are used to it and would favor one form over another.

Has it become normal to adapt to forms of violence against women? Or are we still able to build a lifeline to save us from this violence?

Violence against women behind the scenes

Violence, as described by the World Health Organization (who), is: “A public health challenge defined by the intentional use of physical force or power, threatened or actual, against oneself, another person, or against a group or community, that either results in, or has a high likelihood of, resulting in injury, death, psychological harm.” [2]

We find that every physical, sexual or mental assault directed against women embodies violence and must be confronted. What most people cannot accept is that violence against women is not just beating, rape,  physical abuse, or fleecing them out of their money. Violence is consistent with the violation of women’s decisions and privacy under outdated social labels.

Forms of Violence Against Women

Taking away women’s freedom to make their own decisions represents violence against their humanity and being a part of this society, such as their decision to pursue education and build their professional and academic careers.

In addition, immoral and violent practices such as child marriage, destroy childhood and buries it with a bloody white cloth on a coffin-like bed, leaving behind innocence in the prison of a stolen childhood. Apart from the consequences of this marriage, a painful scene that is being ignored; to see a child breastfeed from another child who was forced to mature before her time and play the role of a mother that does not fit her, so you would not know who is taking the strength of the other.

The decision of every woman to marry and choose her partner is a legitimate right, and its violation is not normal. Also, violence against women is represented by preventing them from doing the work she desires and strives for, and forcing them to do the work imposed on them by society merely because she is a woman.

Moreover, denying women their right to choose the names of their children, by virtue of customs and norms, is violence. It is important to know that this is not a normal thing, this is violence committed against her motherhood. Many daily practices embody violence directed against women in society, such as electronic harassment and verbal abuse to which they are subjected, whether from a partner or others, which is not ordinary.

According to the UN, violence manifests itself in physical, sexual, and psychological forms, encompassing:

• Intimate partner violence (battering, psychological abuse, marital rape, femicide).
• Sexual violence and harassment (rape, forced sexual acts, unwanted sexual advances, child sexual abuse, forced marriage, street harassment, stalking, cyber-harassment).
• Human trafficking (slavery, sexual exploitation).
• Female genital mutilation.
• Child marriage. [3]

Violence Against Women- Between Habituation and Confrontation

The biggest role in confronting violence is to recognize it and not accept it under its various forms and labels. A woman’s familiarity of being verbally abused by her husband is an assault against her human dignity. Her justification for the harassment she is subjected to on a daily basis, whether at home, school or the workplace, is also not ordinary. In addition, it is her right to refuse everything that she deems threatening to her stability, health, and mental well-being, like refusing any employment contract that defines her salary as a woman and not as a worthy and competent employee.

International organizations, institutions, and NGOs seek to eliminate violence against women by strengthening the role of women in society. Empowering women with their rights and supporting their decisions in life, education, and work is also an important factor in confronting violence against women. Violence against women will not be eliminated by habit, but by confronting and acknowledging it and not tolerating any behavior that threatens women’s entity and freedom.

Your voice is your choice, and your silence is no longer acceptable. Some women may find it challenging to disclose the violence they experience in a country governed by customs and traditions, that is why most ongoing cases of violence against women are caused by the silence of the woman herself about her right.

Women are afraid that society will tear them down and face them with stigma and rejection. But with constant exposure to these practices, this silence will turn into a ticking time bomb, ready to explode and take matters to the extreme. And because every woman is looking for security and stability, each of us has to stand up for every word, behavior, or violation of her dignity or freedom.‌‌

Raise your voice today, your silence is no longer acceptable.

♀️ 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.

Also read:

• Violence Under The Microscope.

• Verbal Harassment.

References:

[1] Glasprotivnasils

[2] WHO

[3] UN

Verbal harassment invades our streets, institutions, parks, and much other public and private places. Verbal harassment is one form of sexual harassment. This harassment has almost become something of a given that girls are exposed to in our society. If you ask any girl you know if she’s ever been subjected to unwanted comments or rude looks on the street, the answer is seldom “no.” Although the victims of this form of harassment are mostly young girls, any individual is also exposed to it, regardless of gender or age.

Definition of verbal harassment

It is a type of sexual violence that does not necessarily involve any physical contact. This happens through inappropriate comments and sexually suggestive words. [1] It infringes on the privacy or feelings of the individual and makes him feel uncomfortable, disrespected, violated, or just a body. [2]

Forms of Verbal Harassment

Verbal harassment takes different forms, including:

1- Calls, whistling, screaming, whispering, or any kind of sexual suggestion.

2- Comments, such as making sexual remarks about the victim’s body, clothes, or way of walking. In addition to making jokes or sexual anecdotes.

3- Facial expressions. Making facial expressions of a sexual nature, such as winking or using the tongue.

4- Invitation to have sex, such as asking the victim to have sex or describing the sexual practice, or fantasizing about sexual practice.

5- Unwanted attention, the insistence on getting to know each other, socializing, or giving gifts accompanied by sexual suggestions.

6- Phone calls, making calls that carry sexual suggestions or threats.[2]

7- Inappropriate conversations of a sexual nature with children. [3]

Where Does Verbal Harassment Happen?

There is no single place for this type of harassment to occur. We may see it in public or private places. We also see it in isolated as well as crowded places such as transportation, streets, markets, and schools. [2]

Who are the Perpetrators of Verbal Harassment?

Harassment perpetrators may be groups or individuals of men or women. The harasser could be a complete stranger to the victim, a co-worker, or even a relative. [2]

Worst of all, if he is in a higher position than the victim, such as being a manager at work. This increases the victim’s sense of inability to respond to this abuse.

Victims’ Reactions Vary

The harmful effect of verbal harassment on its victims, whether men or women of all ages, includes mental and emotional aspects. To overwhelm them with a feeling of discomfort or threat. If it occurs in the workplace, it may also interfere with the victims’ productivity and lead to job loss. This type of harassment may also be a precursor to other types of abuse, such as sexual assault. [3]

On the other hand, due to the prevalence of verbal harassment in the streets and the lack of awareness about it. It has become a regular part of girls’ everyday conversation. For example, one of the girls tells her friends about the looks and comments she got on the street. As a kind of brag about people liking her looks. Without knowing that what her society considers normal is not at all.

Girls need to know that verbal harassment is a form of sexual violence. This harassment may put her at risk of stalking or even rape. And that no one has the right to express an opinion about girls’ bodies or their clothes. Nor does the harasser have the right to decide what constitutes harassment and what does not. Harassers of this type often accuse victims of exaggerating things and may even hold the victim responsible.

The Uplifting Syrian Women initiative confirms its continued support for victims of verbal harassment. It is encouraged not to ignore this type of abuse. In addition to encouraging them to be strong to confront any kind of harassment and not to remain silent about their right to criminalize the harasser.

♀️ 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.

Also read:

• International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
• Honour Crime.
• Violence Against Women.

References:

[1]  Law Office of William M. Julien, P.A.

[2] Harass Map

[3] Manly Stewart