Nour Salam, a human rights activist and defender of women’s rights, from AL-Sweida Governorate. Nour was born in Damascus in 1990, has a degree in French literature from the University of Damascus, where her studies were part of her journey in seeking knowledge and change. She moved to live in As-Suwayda in 2013 and previously worked as a field coordinator and communication officer at the “Baytna” organization supporting Syrian civil society. Additionally, she is a founding member of several local initiatives aimed at enhancing the role of women in society. She is also a member of the Syrian Women’s Political Movement.

Nour hails from the city of Damascus, which holds many memories and dreams for her. Nour expresses: “I have a deep connection with Damascus; it is my city that witnessed my childhood and youth. I learned many lessons there, and I lived moments of joy and sorrow. My dreams took shape in its alleys, but with the beginning of the revolution, I started facing challenges I had not expected.”

Nour grew up in a family opposed to the regime, which made her witness to many political pressures. She adds: “I lived in an oppositional environment, and when the revolution began, I was very enthusiastic to participate. I felt that change was coming and that we could build a new country free from tyranny.”

Nour continues: “When the revolution started, I was 21 years old, and I saw hope in people’s eyes. I participated in demonstrations and supported calls for freedom. But after a while, I began to see my friends being arrested, which increased my determination to continue the struggle.”

Nour says: “Moving to As-Suwayda was a difficult step, but I realized it was necessary to protect my family and secure safer working conditions. Although I missed Damascus, I was grateful for the opportunity to work in civil society.”

She describes her feelings after moving, saying: “That phase was filled with anxiety and nostalgia. I felt the loss of many friends, and it was difficult to adapt to the new reality. But I was determined to continue the struggle and saw in As-Suwayda a new opportunity to pursue the causes I believe in.”

“What motivates me is my deep belief that the Syrian people deserve freedom and dignity. We have an ancient history and a deeply rooted civilization, and it is our duty to continue the struggle to build a new Syria.”

In 2018, Nour’s interest in political work began. She was greatly influenced during her attendance at multiple workshops on governance systems, policies, and political parties. Nour says about this period: “After years of working with politicians, I felt that political work had become an urgent necessity, especially after politics was emptied of its content during Hafez Al-Assad’s era, and people were left chasing their livelihood under Bashar Al-Assad. I also became familiar with the concept of feminism and its various orientations and realized that feminist struggle is an ongoing struggle that must play a decisive role in Syria’s next phase.”

Nour talks about the challenges facing women in political work, saying: “Before 2011, Syria was devoid of any real form of political activity, as the regime suppressed every political attempt and prevented any type of opposition. After 2011, things did not change much; rather, the situation became more complicated due to other means of pressure on the people, most notably impoverishing them and preoccupying them with their daily survival.”

Regarding the challenges facing Syrian women in political work, Nour explains: “Women in Syria face immense challenges on all levels. Despite the presence of women in the political field, their role remains marginalized. With the outbreak of the revolution, women’s suffering and exposure to threats and marginalization increased more than ever, doubling the political challenges related to women.”

As for her joining the Syrian Women’s Political Movement, Nour said: “In 2022, I was a participant in the feminist school in Lebanon. During my work in civil society, I witnessed many cases of violence against women in various fields. I felt that feminist struggle represented me, and it was only natural for me to be part of any feminist political formation. I learned about the work of the Syrian Women’s Political Movement through member Iman Balan and decided to join after confirming that this movement would grant me the opportunity to be an active agent of change.”

Nour adds: “Through my work with the Syrian Women’s Political Movement, I believe it will succeed in engaging Syrian women effectively in the political process. It will play an important role in building Syria’s future and will help raise political awareness among women who have been excluded for decades. The Syrian Women’s Political Movement will pave the way for the voices of Syrian women to reach decision-making places in a strong and tangible way.”

Regarding the obstacles that the Syrian Women’s Political Movement may face, Nour adds: “The Syrian society still lacks sufficient awareness about the concept of feminism and feminist struggle, which poses a challenge to the movement. However, the Syrian Women’s Political Movement continues to work to change these perceptions and raise awareness among women and society in general.”

Regarding the current situation in Syria, Nour affirms: “After nearly a decade since the revolution started, the Syrian political scene remains complex, but I believe that activating political engagement is the way to redirect Syrians toward the revolution’s fundamental goals. We still have a lot of work to accomplish, but we must hold onto hope and continue the struggle.”

As for her personal motivations to continue political work, Nour clarifies: “What motivates me is my deep belief that the Syrian people deserve freedom and dignity. We have an ancient history and a deeply rooted civilization, and it is our duty to continue the struggle to build a new Syria.”

“I believe that the struggle for women’s rights is an integral part of the struggle for the freedom of the Syrian people.”

Regarding her personal experience, Nour expresses: “Despite the many difficulties, there were numerous positive experiences from which I learned a lot. What affected me the most was the solidarity among Syrians during difficult times, as shared suffering creates a collective strength that cannot be ignored.”

On the harsh experiences she has gone through, Nour states: “I cannot name one experience over another, but in general, all the difficult moments we went through left a deep impact on me and made me more determined to move forward in the struggle for a free Syria.”

Nour concludes her speech by expressing her hopes for Syria’s future, saying: “I dream of a Syria free from fear, where women and men live with dignity. I believe that the struggle for women’s rights is an integral part of the struggle for the freedom of the Syrian people.”

She sends a message to Syrian women, saying: “You have given so much, and there is still a long road ahead. Seize your rights and be active in society. Together, we can build a better future.”