Reducing inequalities has become an urgent necessity all across the world to bridge the existing gap between the members of society. Besides empowering minorities with the aim of taking advantage of their potential. As a result, we have an interdependent society in which everyone is respected and their human rights are protected. It is crucial to lessen the likelihood of conflicts arising within societies to solidify peace and stability among individuals.

Facts about inequality

Inequality is evident in both developed and developing countries. Its aspects are numerous and represented as follows: income disparities, geographical locations, sex, age, and race. In addition to the psychological and physical inadequacy, the sexual orientation and religious beliefs.

According to the United Nations, more than 70% of the world’s population now live in countries that have increased income inequality. This increases the inequality gap between peoples!¹ In the last three decades, one billion people have escaped extreme poverty. On the other hand, there is the poorest half of the population whose income has not changed during this period. Although the global economic output has tripled since 1990!²

The importance of putting an end to inequality

Reducing inequality helps to entrench justice between individuals and protect them from unfairness. Choosing the right people to work based on their skill and experience, apart from their sexual and physical differences. This will create a fair environment for all individuals. Also, this enables them to channel their expertise in the right field that is in everyone’s interest. 

This simple procedure helps to build a new community that is free from inequality, insecurity, and all the reasons that ignite conflicts. It also increases the opportunities for acquiring skills facilitating access to economic and social prosperity and reducing inequality among individuals.

Moreover, forms of gender-based violence will stop, to make room for peace and understanding between individuals. All of these reasons lead to a better place for everyone which will reflect on expectancy and quality of life.

Inequality in Syria

After more than ten years of suffering from a lack of resources and a declining economy; the ability to achieve equality in various domains has deteriorated. This has increased gender discrimination. As well as its contribution to entrenching gaps and differences between individuals.

The most prevalent cases of inequality in Syrian society are:

1. Class Inequality: 80% of people in Syria live below the poverty line. The country has an unemployment rate of at least 55 percent, and jobs are increasingly hard to find. While the majority of the population struggles, a few big business owners have established a monopoly over approximately 75 percent of the economy.³
2. Gender inequality: Syrian women are suffering from social restraints caused by customs and traditions, hindering them from growing and finding their place. Besides the ongoing war which made things worse. We see how she is affected unfairly in comparison to men, and has to bear extra responsibilities such as: supporting her family alone after losing her spouse in the war or shouldering the responsibility of caring for their children and other family members. The risk of gender-based violence against her increased, and levels of female poverty increased compared to men.⁴

Entities working to reduce inequalities in Syria

1. Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative:
   A digital initiative that seeks to achieve gender equality and empower women by providing training and educational workshops. These trainings provide equal opportunities for both sexes and thus reflect positively on the economic and livelihood conditions in Syria.
2. Ahmad Humanitarian Project:
   A humanitarian medical project that helps low-income people with health care at low cost or free of charge. The project aims to create a healthy society without looking at the class background, thus reducing inequalities in society.
3. Light Initiative:
   An independent, non-profit initiative that seeks to provide fair educational opportunities for the blind. Scientific content is also available in suitable formats, in order to ensure their chance in having proper education during several stages.

A person who lost one of their 5 senses, or who suffers from some physical Impairment, has no less importance than a person with full senses. What distinguishes us as human beings is our humanity, our minds, and our skills, and the basis for the progress of any society begins with justice and ensuring human rights. Therefore, we have to start with ourselves as individuals, to accept and respect others regardless of their physical, racial, and cultural differences, and to deal with mercy and tolerance with all of our fellow human beings.

Also read:

• Responsible Consumption and Production in Syria
• Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure in Syria
• Gender Equality

References:

1. UN Development
2. UN
3. MEI
4. UN Women