Swedia- Although the appointment of women to high positions by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)-led interim government is seen as a progressive step, women’s rights activists in the country think that this step is only symbolic, saying that women are excluded and face severe restrictions in all facets of life.

“The government has appointed several women to high positions in order to ease the international pressure and criticism against the country,” said Linia Darwish, a women’s rights activist and agricultural engineer in Sweida. “Women are still excluded and marginalized at most critical times. Women are not only the foundation of families but also the first nucleus for the building of strong and cohesive societies. Despite the important role of women, women are underrepresented in politics and at all levels of decision-making.”

‘Women’s political participation is a must’

Syrian women demand an inclusive and genuine national dialogue, Linia Darwish noted. “A structure reflecting social diversity must be formed to draft a fair and equal constitution. People from all segments of society must be represented in this structure.

The aim of the appointment of several women to high positions is to silence women.

What we need is a society embracing all ethnic and religious identities in Syria.

Women’s participation in politics and all decision-making positions is a must to build a free and equal Syria.”

Speaking about restrictions faced by women in Syria, she said, “In some regions, women are forced to wear hijab in public spaces. In some regions, women are banned from sitting in front of public transport buses because women are seen as a shadow of men rather than as individuals. Women play important roles in society, they are not just mothers or wives. A peaceful and stable Syria cannot be built without women.”

Linia Darwish also expressed her concerns over the increase in kidnapping and violence against women. “Many young women have been kidnapped in Syria since the beginning of 2025 and violence against women is on the rise. Dozens of women have been kidnapped, threatened or subjected to violence.”

‘We must build an equal Syria’

Linia Darwish called on all women not to “keep silent anymore. They should openly demand their rights. We demand our fundamental rights, not discrimination. We must build an equal, fair and free Syria together.”