The Syrian Future Movement congratulates Syrian women and women everywhere on this historic day, which dates back to the early 20th century with labor and feminist movements. It was officially recognized by the United Nations in 1975 during International Women’s Year, and then adopted by the General Assembly in 1977 as a day for “Women’s Rights and International Peace.”
This day represents a global symbol for celebrating women’s achievements, promoting gender equality, and combating discrimination and violence.
As stated in its official document, “The Syrian Future Movement and Women” (published on its official website in April 2024), the Syrian Future Movement affirms that Syrian women are the cornerstone of the family structure, and that the appreciation of Syrian family values is based on the “conscious and free woman” who makes the family conscious and free.
We see women as an active and influential component of Syrian society, and we strive to empower them within a framework that preserves national identity and family values, far removed from excessive traditional restrictions or the infringement upon their rights, dignity, and privacy.
The Syrian Future Movement rejects extremist ideologies that confine women to limited roles, and it rejects any exploitation or neglect that deprives them of their opportunities.
Our vision for the future is based on both balance and justice. Women are full partners in shaping the decisions of a democratic civil state, leaders in society, innovators in the economy, and protected from violence and discrimination.
The Syrian Future Movement bases its vision on the harsh reality faced by Syrian women. Statistics (up to 2024-2025) indicate:
- A decline in the female labor force participation rate to only 13.3% (compared to 62.8% for men), according to ILO Modelled Estimates and World Bank data for 2024.
- The widespread prevalence of extreme poverty, affecting more than 33% of the population, with a particularly high rate among female-headed households, according to World Bank reports and the Poverty and Equality Report.
- Gender-based violence (GBV), including physical, psychological, economic, and sexual violence, has escalated, with a marked increase in early marriage and exploitation amidst displacement and the economic crisis, as documented in the 2024-2025 reports of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Whole of Syria GBV AoR. Approximately 8.5 million people (93% of whom are women and girls) require assistance related to GBV.
- Women’s political participation remains limited, with representation in transitional and parliamentary bodies ranging from less than 3-10%, despite their historical role in civil society and the revolution.
The Syrian Future Movement calls for:
- Ensuring at least 30% representation for women in all transitional bodies and future institutions.
- Reforming legislation to combat gender-based violence and protect women’s rights to inheritance, marriage, work, and property.
- Supporting economic programs to empower women, such as vocational training, small business establishment, and equal opportunities in the labor market and business sector.
- Promoting high-quality, non-discriminatory education, raising awareness about sexual and reproductive health, and changing negative social attitudes by purifying cultures that contradict sound religious and human values.
- Empowering women to freely practice their religious rites within a moderate and realistic environment, and supporting women’s volunteer work.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that the future of Syria can only be built with the full and equal participation of conscious and free women. They are not merely victims, but leaders, innovators, and essential partners in peace, development, and national renaissance. We in the Syrian Future Movement are committed to cooperating with civil society and international institutions in a continuous and sustainable effort to redefine the status of women from a moral, humanitarian, and religious perspective.
May every year find Syrian women in good health, freedom, dignity, empowerment, and strength.
