Nagham Jajan

Qamishlo_ The Killing of women continues, and violations against them persist in multiple forms in Syria, while demands are escalating to end impunity and strengthen the rule of law. To ensure the protection of women and the preservation of their rights, a safe and just environment must be provided, and all forms of violence and discrimination against them must be put to an end.

 

Afrin Jumaa, an administrator at the Human Rights Organization in Syria, spoke about the noticeable rise in femicide, explaining that this phenomenon is not new; its roots go back centuries. She added that the last ten years have witnessed a clear increase in these crimes in Syria, due to weak laws that are supposed to protect women and the lack of their actual application, in addition to social customs and the male mentality that gives men authority over women.

She pointed out that many cases of violence against women are treated as private family matters, which exacerbates the harm inflicted on them and may ultimately push some women to take the decision to commit suicide to escape ongoing violence.

"The absence of a constitution that protects women increases cases of violence"

She said that the lack of clear laws, especially the absence of a permanent constitution that protects women, opens the door to more violations. She added that Syria's long transitional period increases the fragility of the situation.

In many areas, war and displacement continue, which in turn makes women more vulnerable to violence. Another reason is the absence of specialized institutions to follow up on cases of violence against women.

Many also resort to committing physical violence or even murder against women, then evade punishment under the pretext of so‑called "honor." At the same time, the rise in violence has created great fear among women, causing them to lose trust in the law. Due to discrimination and being deprived of their rights, they remain silent and find no place to turn for protection.

Afrin Jumaa affirmed the urgent need for laws that protect women and guarantee their rights. "Society's confidence in women's role and the importance of their freedom to protect themselves, their families, and their future exists, but under the banner of protection, great pressure is exercised on women, leading to different reactions. Therefore, it is necessary for the family and society to be more aware of women's issues."

At the same time, there must be unified laws throughout Syria to protect women, and these laws must be built on the basis of dignity, freedom, and the preservation of their rights, and must be applied effectively.

Afrin Jumaa said that women's presence in decision‑making positions is crucial. She explained that "there are many international conventions that Syria has ratified, such as CEDAW, which protects women's rights and works to establish the principle of gender equality within society. Women's presence in decision‑making positions is essential, because women understand the details of protecting themselves and society, and they can play an effective role in enhancing security and stability."

"Syria must be built on just legal foundations"

She noted that the last fifteen years in northern and eastern Syria have witnessed significant progress in giving women real opportunities, as women have proven their presence in various fields and assumed leadership positions. She added, "Activating women's role in drafting laws and in preparing the Syrian constitution is extremely important. Syria must be built on just and equal legal foundations for everyone. In northern and eastern Syria, over fifteen years, women have played an important role in protection and organization, and have become decision‑makers in many positions."

In areas under the control of the Syrian interim government, women are still being killed under religious or traditional pretexts, reflecting a lack of trust in women. Therefore, Afrin Jumaa calls on relevant institutions to assume their responsibilities. It is necessary for women to participate in drafting the new constitution that guarantees their rights and existence. Laws must also be unified throughout Syria on the basis of equality.