Towards a Political Transition in Syria: Women in Peacebuilding

Meeting with women representatives of the Syrian opposition and part of the negotiating delegation of the High Negotiating Committee at the intra-Syrian talks in Geneva. In cooperation with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Panelists: Hind Kabawat, Suheir Attassi, Bassma Kodmani, Alise Moufarej and Samira Almasalmah.

Participants discussed of a number of pressing issues – from an evaluation of the Geneva talks, to the humanitarian crisis, the role of ethnic and religious minorities and the question of detainees – relating to the future of Syria. Drawing on the testimony of a number of Syrian women who have been directly involved in negotiations for a political transition in the country, or whose activities have revolved around other social and cultural themes linked to the humanitarian crisis in Syria, the seminar provided important insights into various dimensions of the conflict.   

One of the key messages delivered by the Syrian guests was that the international community must do more to support the moderate Syrian opposition, increasing pressure on the Assad regime and its supporters, while urging them to abide by United Nations resolutions. Such action is essential in order to end the bloodshed in the country, alleviate the humanitarian crisis and preserve some credibility for the diplomatic track among an increasingly disillusioned Syrian population.