The Syrian Feminist Lobby took part last week in a meeting held by Mr. Geir Pedersen, the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, with several representatives of Syrian feminist organizations in Damascus.
The Lobby was represented by Jumana Seif, Alaa Amer, and Ibtisam Masoud, who conveyed the Lobby’s perspectives on key issues affecting Syrian women and human rights. They also engaged in discussions with the Special Envoy about the current challenges and opportunities regarding Syria’s future.
During the meeting, the participants stressed the urgent need for action to protect and promote human rights in Syria, highlighting the importance of the full, equal, and effective participation of women in public life—especially in political decision-making processes, government structures, and parliamentary representation in the People’s Assembly.
The Lobby’s representatives reiterated their call for justice and accountability through the establishment of a comprehensive transitional justice mechanism based on international legal standards, ensuring redress for victims and contributing to sustainable peace. The women expressed deep concern about the deteriorating security situation and its severe impact on women and children, underlining the ongoing violations of personal freedoms and fundamental human rights.
The participants also pointed out the inadequacy of humanitarian assistance for affected groups, calling for increased humanitarian support and the activation of an urgent response to meet the needs of Syrian society, especially the most vulnerable groups.
They further emphasized the real opportunities to empower local communities in conflict resolution through community-based mediation mechanisms, affirming that women possess the capacity and knowledge to play a central role in these processes.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Special Envoy Geir Pedersen welcomed the insights shared by the participating women, expressing his appreciation for hearing their voices and his commitment to continuing consultations with Syrian women more broadly.
The Office of the Special Envoy also shared a tweet highlighting the importance of the meeting, stating:
“I was grateful to meet with Syrian women to hear their perspectives on Syria’s future… They voiced serious concerns about the security situation and called for the protection of basic rights. They also stressed the importance of women’s meaningful participation, transitional justice, and increased humanitarian support.”
Tweet link: https://x.com/unenvoysyria/status/1928467845362446403?s=46
