Naîma Hesen: A constitution that ignores women is unacceptable

Politician Naîma Hesen condemned the Damascus government for excluding women from decision-making and stated that such a constitution is unacceptable.

Naîma Hesen, from the Women's Council of the Democratic Union Party (PYD), told ANHA that the draft constitution violates the principles of citizenship and paves the way for the country to revert to its previous state. She said: "This draft deepens ethnic and religious divisions among Syria’s communities, further exacerbating the crisis of an unjust system in the country." Stressing the importance of justice for all people, she said that the constitutional draft announced by the Damascus government fails to meet the expectations of the Syrian people and deliberately ignores women's struggle.

Women and social groups are being ignored

Naîma Hesen emphasized that women in Syria expect a democratic constitution, yet the proposed draft fails to meet these expectations. She pointed out that the constitution disregards the country’s social components, particularly denying the rights of the Kurdish people and completely excluding women.

Recalling the immense sacrifices women made during the war, Hesen stated: "Women endured oppression and torture, and they became martyrs in the struggle for freedom. Despite everything, they persevered with great determination until the very end. Yet, Ahmed Al-Sharaa (Al-Jolani) disregards their efforts and sacrifices, pushing them into marginalization and confining them to their homes."

A new centralized authoritarian regime is being established

Hesen emphasized that the draft constitution does not serve democracy, stating that the Damascus government is attempting to establish an even more centralized and authoritarian system than the Baath regime. She pointed out that in this system, where women have only a minimal level of representation, those who appear to be in positions of power do not truly represent the women of Syria. She added: "Women within the centralized system operate entirely under male dominance."

Call for women's solidarity

Naîma Hesen emphasized that the experience of women in Northern and Eastern Syria serves as a model that should be embraced. She highlighted how women have proven themselves in every field, leading the revolution and achieving significant successes, particularly through the co-chairing system.

Hesen urged all women and civil society organizations in Syria to fight for a constitution that represents all social groups. She said: "Women must unite for a fair and democratic constitution that safeguards their political, cultural, and social rights. They must defend their rights and work towards building a just society without exclusion."

At the end of her speech, Hesen called on women and civil society in Syria to actively strive for a constitution that ensures justice and equality while protecting women's rights in all spheres.

She emphasized the need for women in Syria and beyond to unite in their struggle for rights and to take concrete steps toward establishing a fair society that excludes no one.