The uncertain future of Syrian women after Assad’s fall

In a dramatic and unsettling turn of events, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has fled the country amid escalating tensions and internal strife. This sudden departure has created a dangerous power vacuum, further destabilising the already war-torn nation. Various factions are now vying for control, triggering increased violence and uncertainty. Among those bearing the brunt of this turmoil are Syrian women, who find themselves particularly vulnerable in this lawless environment. Several reports have previously indicated a disturbing surge in gender-based violence and exploitation. As the absence of central authority has left many women without protection or access to justice, their future remains at a crossroads.

Sobering findings: Violations against women in Syria

Coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) released its 13th annual report on November 25, 2024. This comprehensive document highlighted the systematic and widespread violence endured by women throughout the 13-year-long Syrian conflict. The report revealed a grim pattern of extrajudicial killings targeting women, with many losing their lives as a direct consequence of the ongoing violence. Arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances have also been rampant, with thousands of women vanishing without a trace, leaving their families in anguish.

Tragically, numerous women have suffered and died as a result of torture while in custody, a harrowing testament to the brutality of the conflict. Sexual violence has been another devastating aspect, underscoring the severe risks that women face daily. These violations have inflicted immediate harm while causing long-term psychological and social repercussions for survivors and their families, further compounding their suffering.

The report found that since the onset of the conflict in 2011, there have been 11,268 women detained or forcibly disappeared and 117 women have died due to torture. Additionally, the report documents 11,553 incidents of sexual violence against women. The humanitarian crisis intensified in 2024, with approximately 1,951 families displaced in northwestern Syria due to attacks by the Syrian regime, and over 80% of the displaced individuals being women and children.

Worsening humanitarian crisis

The humanitarian situation in Syria continues to deteriorate, particularly for women and girls. According to the SNHR, the ongoing military conflicts and a severe shortage of humanitarian aid funding have exacerbated the plight of vulnerable populations. The lack of adequate funding has severely hindered efforts to deliver essential services, such as healthcare and education, leaving displaced families with few resources to rebuild their lives.

International focus on other conflicts has diverted attention and resources away from Syria, heightening the risk of neglecting Syrian women. This marginalisation further worsens their already dire living conditions and leaves them more exposed to violence and exploitation.

Future outlook and potential impacts

A video going viral on several social media platforms shows Syrian rebel forces freeing dozens of women and at least one child from a prison controlled by the regime of deposed President Bashar al-Assad. In the footage, rebels are heard reassuring the women, saying, “please don’t be afraid, you can go out now. We’re part of the revolution.” While this act may appear as a moderate gesture towards improving the plight of women, it is essential to note that these rebels are fundamentally Islamist factions. Consequently, despite the initial promise of freedom, significant improvements in women’s rights and issues in Syria are unlikely under their influence, as their ideologies may perpetuate existing gender inequalities and restrictions.

The post-Assad era presents a highly uncertain and volatile future for Syria. The ongoing struggle for power among competing factions could intensify, leading to heightened violence and further displacement. Women are likely to remain disproportionately affected, often caught in the crossfire or subjected to targeted acts of violence.

Moreover, if international support continues to wane due to shifting global priorities, the humanitarian crisis may deepen. A decline in assistance could result in further reductions in access to basic services, increasing the vulnerability of women and children.

Without urgent international intervention and a concerted effort to protect women’s rights, the cycle of violence and victimisation is likely to persist. This dire scenario underscores the need for immediate action to address these challenges, ensuring that Syrian women are not left to face the brunt of the ongoing conflict alone.