The Syrian Family: Between Traditions and Modernity

Summary:

A study on the changes that have affected the Syrian family due to modernization and social transformations, and how to balance traditions and modernity.

The Syrian family is a fundamental pillar of society, playing a crucial role in passing down values and traditions from one generation to the next.
Over time, the Syrian family has undergone significant changes due to modernization and social shifts.
This study aims to analyze these changes and explore ways to balance traditions and modernity to ensure the family’s stability and development.

Changes Affecting the Syrian Family:

The enumeration of changes in the Syrian family depends on the nature of the studied topic. In our case, we identified four changes that have impacted the dynamics of the Syrian family.

Demographic Transformations:

• Migration and displacement due to the previous conflict have led to significant demographic changes in Syria. Many families have moved from rural areas to cities or even abroad, impacting the traditional family structure. These transformations have had a major influence on family relationships and social support.

Economic Changes:

• Economic changes have impacted the Syrian family by altering individual roles within the household. The percentage of working women has increased due to the need for additional financial support. A survey conducted in Aleppo and A‘azaz showed that the percentage of working women exceeded 45%, compared to less than 13% before the revolution.
• This shift has affected the balance between work and family life, introducing new challenges in the distribution of roles and responsibilities.

Technology and Communication:

• Modern technology and communication have enhanced interaction among individuals and enabled access to new information and resources. However, they have also led to a growing disconnect within the family, as children and young people spend more time in front of screens and electronic devices.

Education and Awareness:

• Unexpectedly, Syria has witnessed significant improvements in education and awareness, impacting individuals’ expectations and roles in society. Today’s youth have greater awareness and aspire to achieve their personal and professional goals, sometimes conflicting with traditional family values. According to a recent survey by our office, over 65% of young people in Idlib reject parental interference in their marital life.

How to Reconcile Tradition and Modernity:

• Maintaining core family values such as respect, cooperation, and mutual support is essential for balancing tradition and modernity. This can be achieved by fostering intergenerational communication and transmitting fundamental values in a flexible manner that aligns with contemporary challenges.
• Open and honest dialogue within the family is key to mutual understanding. Families should collectively discuss challenges and issues, seeking solutions that respect traditions while adapting to modern changes.
• Achieving a balance between work and family life is crucial. Allocating dedicated time for family activities and leisure can help, with shared schedules that include all family members.
• Continuous education and awareness are necessary to keep up with modern changes. Families can support their members by encouraging skill development and knowledge expansion in line with social and economic advancements.
• Technology can be leveraged positively to enhance communication and interaction within the family. Apps and digital tools can facilitate shared activities and maintain connections with distant relatives and friends.
• Finally, promoting gender equality through a fair distribution of responsibilities is essential. Encouraging both boys and girls to participate in household activities and supporting their personal and professional aspirations helps create a balanced and inclusive family environment.

Conclusion:

The changes affecting the Syrian family due to modernization and social shifts present both challenges and opportunities. At the Family Affairs Office of the Syrian Future Movement, we believe that by reconciling tradition and modernity, the Syrian family can maintain both stability and growth. Strengthening dialogue and understanding, balancing work and family life, supporting continuous education, utilizing technology positively, and promoting gender equality are all key steps toward achieving this balance.

Family Affairs Office
Research Team
Research and Studies Department
Studies
Syrian Future Movement

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