Syria's Struggle: Women's Fight for Political Inclusivity Amidst Cosmetic Reforms

In Syria's latest parliamentary elections, women's participation remained overwhelmingly low, with only six women securing seats in the 210-member body. The exclusion of women was evident in the election's structure, which sidelined female representation and echoed a long-standing pattern of marginalization.

Under President Ahmed al-Sharaa's new regime, Syria was purportedly moving towards democracy. However, the elections were tightly controlled by the Supreme Judicial Committee for Elections, dominated by male officials, further contributing to the exclusion of women.

To combat these entrenched patterns, experts suggest implementing institutional reforms, such as gender quotas and transparent electoral processes, to allow women better access to political roles and influence. Without these changes, Syria's democratic facade remains threatened by inequality and exclusion.