The Syrian Women’s Political Movement (SWPM), in collaboration with the Afghan Women’s Coordination Umbrella, held an online event titled: “Building Bridges: Stories of Resilience and Collective Action of Syrian and Afghan Women,” on Thursday, October 3, 2024. The speakers from the Afghan Women’s Coordination Umbrella included Jamila Afghani, Hasna Jalal, and Nagina Yari. On behalf of the SWPM were Khawla Dunia, Salma Al-Dimashqi, and Hiam Haj Ali. The session was facilitated by Muzna Dureid, a member of the SWPM.

This event provided a unique opportunity to bring together women from the region who share common experiences in resisting authoritarian military regimes. It aimed to highlight the ongoing struggles of women leaders fighting for their rights as political agents and sources of strength and justice. Moreover, it served as a platform to enhance dialogue, exchange lessons learned, and pave the way for stronger and more cohesive movements advocating for peace and justice.

The event focused on listening to the voices of Syrian and Afghan women facing challenges by sharing their diverse stories and experiences that spotlight their courage and determination in the face of conflict and oppression. The discussion covered successful strategies employed by Syrian and Afghan women to defend their rights, particularly in influencing policymakers and international bodies.

 Participants emphasised the need to discuss ways to strengthen collective action strategies among diverse groups to ensure efforts are united and differences are overcome, fostering bodies capable of leading collective work for peace and justice.

During the session, Hiam Haj Ali, a member of the SWPM, spoke about the challenges facing Syrian women: “Today, it has become extremely difficult to continue in civil or political work. Women who want to participate are aware that their lives are at risk, and being silenced can be easy amid the current chaos. These ongoing threats have driven many to withdraw from political activism, and even feminist work is now seen as a crime that can be punished. Simply demanding rights or seeking change may expose us to accusations of blasphemy, defamation, and even death threats.” Hiam added, “Nevertheless, despite all that, we must shed a light on the unique experience in Syria that combines political and feminist work, which I personally consider a successful model worth following—the Syrian Women’s Political Movement. This initiative has continued for years and is still ongoing. Hope for change remains alive, and we persist in our struggle, continuing to work towards the future we dream of.”

Sharing her experience working in the National Consultations Team, which collaborates with various groups of Syrian women inside Syria and in neighbouring countries, Salma Al-Dimashqi, a member of the SWPM, spoke about the importance of these consultative sessions. She emphasized that they unite women around a shared vision on important and sensitive issues, and help shape the future they aspire to, aiming to make it better. She addressed a message to Afghan women, saying: “Try to create safe spaces for women where they can express what they endure and what they dream of. Build a wall of trust with the oppressed, and take advantage of the Afghan women living outside Afghanistan. Connect with them to share your stories with the world so they are not forgotten.”

In her closing remarks, Khawla Dunia, a member of the SWPM, stated: “The Syrian Women’s Political Movement continues its work, and we hope to lay the foundation for a pivotal change in Syria, in terms of Syrian women and their roles. Whether through achieving a political solution that establishes a united, democratic Syria, or through participation in a political future where women are active participants with equal rights and responsibilities, this is what our country needs to be rebuilt with the efforts of all its sons and daughters, ensuring equal rights for everyone.”