Hind Kabawat: Syria's only woman minister pushes for change - Global Women, BBC World Service

Syria’s Woman at the Top: A Year After Assad

Key Concepts:

• Post-Conflict Syria: The challenges of rebuilding a nation after a prolonged civil war, including economic devastation, institutional collapse, and social fragmentation.
• Transitional Justice: The process of addressing past human rights abuses and promoting reconciliation in a post-conflict setting.
• Women’s Empowerment: The efforts to increase the representation and influence of women in political and social life, particularly in post-conflict reconstruction.
• Sectarianism: The divisions and tensions between different religious and ethnic groups in Syria, exacerbated by the war.
• Transitional Government: The interim governing body established after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, led by President Ahmed al-Shara.

The New Syria: A Fragile Transition

The report details the situation in Syria one year after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad on December 8th, 2025. While celebrating the end of a brutal dictatorship, the country faces immense challenges. The new government, led by President Ahmed al-Shara – a former rebel commander with past links to al-Qaeda – is dominated by men from his inner circle. A notable exception is Hind Kabawat, the Minister for Social Affairs and Labour, who represents a potential for change within the new administration. The country is described as “broken and broke,” with ongoing fighting and a population yearning for a better future. The initial “lightness” felt after the regime’s fall is tempered by the slow pace of reconstruction and the persistence of deep-seated societal issues.

Hind Kabawat: Navigating a Male-Dominated Landscape

Hind Kabawat’s role as the sole female minister is central to the report. She is portrayed as a dynamic and determined figure, committed to serving the Syrian people. She acknowledges the challenges of being a woman in a predominantly male government but asserts her authority and influence. “Actually, I surround them,” she states, emphasizing her ability to navigate the political landscape. She expresses a desire to increase female representation in the cabinet, believing women bring a unique and valuable perspective to governance. She highlights their commitment and passion, stating, “they complete the task, they work with passion, they're very committed.” Kabawat actively promotes and supports women in leadership positions, showcasing examples like Rima, her office manager, and female directors from Daraa and Kunaitira.

Institutional Collapse and the Scale of the Challenge

The report emphasizes the severe state of Syria’s institutions following the war. Kabawat describes the ministry she inherited as being “below zero,” lacking basic necessities like laptops, functioning elevators, and even electricity. The task of rebuilding is immense, compounded by the need for a dual focus on transition and post-conflict recovery. She acknowledges the overwhelming workload, managing both Social Affairs and Labour, but remains resolute: “It is too much, but it’s OK. Is it? This is the challenge, and we have to do it.” Kabawat stresses her commitment to serving all Syrians, regardless of their background, stating, “I don't feel myself a Christian or a woman when I do my job. I feel like I'm a citizen of Syria.”

Addressing Sectarian Tensions and the Legacy of Violence

A significant portion of the report focuses on the sectarian tensions that have emerged in post-Assad Syria. The new government, comprised largely of Sunni Muslims, faces accusations of discrimination and violence against Alawites, Druze, and Kurds. The report cites a massacre in coastal areas resulting in 1,400 deaths and violence against the Druze community in the south as examples of these tensions. Kabawat acknowledges these “mistakes” but emphasizes the government’s commitment to investigation and prosecution of those responsible. She stresses the importance of inclusivity, stating, “For me, the people of the coast and the people of Sweida, they're part of Syria.” Her approach to addressing these issues is through dialogue and reconciliation.

Reaching Out: Idlib and the Former Opposition

Kabawat’s visit to Idlib, a former rebel stronghold, is presented as a symbolic gesture of reconciliation and a demonstration of the new government’s commitment to engaging with all segments of Syrian society. The visit includes a celebration of the end of the war and a gathering of women from diverse backgrounds, including former opposition members. The report highlights the leadership roles women played during the war and emphasizes the need to ensure their continued participation in peacebuilding efforts. However, it also notes the disappointing results of recent parliamentary elections, where only four percent of seats were allocated to women, prompting Kabawat to challenge the women of Idlib to unite and ensure better representation in the future.

The Search for Justice and the Missing

The report delves into the critical issue of missing persons – a pervasive problem stemming from the Assad regime’s repression. Fawzia al-Assad, a civil society activist, highlights the immense suffering of families searching for loved ones, with some families reporting dozens of missing members. The “Truth Tents” initiative, where families share photos and stories of the missing, is presented as a grassroots effort to address this trauma. While Kabawat acknowledges the importance of transitional justice, Fawzia’s group reports a lack of support from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour, expressing a desire for direct engagement with Kabawat.

Public Opinion and the Path Forward

The report includes snippets of conversations with ordinary Syrians, revealing a range of perspectives on the new government and the challenges facing the country. While some express optimism and support for increased female representation, others prioritize rebuilding the economy and restoring stability. Kabawat acknowledges the growing impatience of the Syrian people and the need for international assistance to rebuild homes and infrastructure. She also defends the government’s pace of reform, arguing that one year is insufficient to overcome decades of dictatorship and devastation.

Conclusion: A Long Road Ahead

The report concludes that while the ousting of Bashar al-Assad marked a significant turning point for Syria, the path to peace and prosperity remains long and arduous. Hind Kabawat’s efforts to navigate the complexities of post-conflict reconstruction, promote women’s empowerment, and address sectarian tensions are presented as crucial steps towards building a new Syria. However, the report underscores the immense challenges that lie ahead, including institutional collapse, the legacy of violence, and the need for sustained international support. Kabawat’s personal struggles and unwavering commitment serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the enduring hope for a better future.