EMLÎ SELÛM

Deir ez-Zor- More women have taken part in decision-making at all levels since Deir ez-Zor and its surroundings were liberated from ISIS. The Executive Council in Deir ez-Zor has carried out many works for women. After the foundation of the Executive Council, many local assemblies have been founded to support the works of the council. The rate of women and men taking part in the institutions of the Democratic Autonomous Administration is equal and the co-presidency system has been practiced in every department and assembly. 70% of women work in institutions, according to the Zenûbiya Women’s Group.

“We make incredible achievements”

Atab Cedan, director of the Women's Committee in the western region of Deir ez-Zor, indicated that the Women's Committee organizes meetings and seminars to educate women and improve their situation in society. “The local assemblies in Deir ez-Zor support the works of the Women’s Committee,” Atab Cedan said that the Women’s Committee becomes more active with the support of the assemblies. “The number of our members is increasing. We make incredible achievements in supporting, uniting and helping women.”

“A society can be free when women are free”

Hasina Hussein Al-Issa, Co-chair of the Hermûşiya Assembly, highlighted the importance of women’s participation in decision-making positions, “because a society can be free when women are free. In NE Syria, women govern themselves.”

“Women were ignored because of war, tradition and custom,” said Kesra Sahar Mistefa, the director Culture and Art Center in Deir ez-Zor, “But after the establishment of assemblies, more women participate in works to develop society. The Culture and Art Center works to develop women's skills.”