Hind Kabawat, Syria's only female minister for social affairs and labour, is determined to pave a path for change within a transitional government shaped by war and conflict. Addressing concerns during her first day in the role about the lack of women in leadership, she asserts, 'Every day, I ask: Why are there no more women?'
Navigating through sectarian violence and crises, Kabawat acknowledges past mistakes of the government but emphasizes that these are common in transitions. She stresses the need for more women in prominent positions, urging President Ahmed al-Sharaa to appoint more women in his cabinet.
With the challenge of aiding millions displaced by civil war, Kabawat recalls her outreach to various communities, insisting on inclusivity and honesty as the country's foundation for rebuilding. Her work involves addressing issues faced by orphans and widows and crafting job opportunities for those suffering.
Kabawat’s first mission took her to Aleppo, where she visited shelters and assessed the situation of those fleeing recent violence. She envisions a Syria where women can play pivotal roles in decision-making rather than being sidelined in political discussions.
During a conference in Idlib, she passionately called for collective action to elect women into parliament, scolding attendees for lacking political strategy in recent elections where only 4% of seats were filled by women.
Despite men's dominance in the new government, Kabawat stands firm in her position, stating, 'I am not here for window dressing... the minute I feel like a minority or a woman in my job, I lose my legitimacy.' With her unique position, Kabawat seeks to build trust among the fractured communities, aspiring for an inclusive government that survives.
Through her continuous efforts, Kabawat remains a symbol of hope, advocating that dialogue and action are essential to overcoming decades of discord, while chasing the dream of a new, unifying Syria.
Navigating through sectarian violence and crises, Kabawat acknowledges past mistakes of the government but emphasizes that these are common in transitions. She stresses the need for more women in prominent positions, urging President Ahmed al-Sharaa to appoint more women in his cabinet.
With the challenge of aiding millions displaced by civil war, Kabawat recalls her outreach to various communities, insisting on inclusivity and honesty as the country's foundation for rebuilding. Her work involves addressing issues faced by orphans and widows and crafting job opportunities for those suffering.
Kabawat’s first mission took her to Aleppo, where she visited shelters and assessed the situation of those fleeing recent violence. She envisions a Syria where women can play pivotal roles in decision-making rather than being sidelined in political discussions.
During a conference in Idlib, she passionately called for collective action to elect women into parliament, scolding attendees for lacking political strategy in recent elections where only 4% of seats were filled by women.
Despite men's dominance in the new government, Kabawat stands firm in her position, stating, 'I am not here for window dressing... the minute I feel like a minority or a woman in my job, I lose my legitimacy.' With her unique position, Kabawat seeks to build trust among the fractured communities, aspiring for an inclusive government that survives.
Through her continuous efforts, Kabawat remains a symbol of hope, advocating that dialogue and action are essential to overcoming decades of discord, while chasing the dream of a new, unifying Syria.
