On June 9, 2025, the Ministry of Tourism issued Decision No. 294, which requires visitors to public beaches and swimming pools to wear specific swimwear, such as the burkini or full-body coverings. The decision exempts four-star hotels and above, as well as clubs and beaches affiliated with the private sector.

The Syrian Women’s Political Movement saw this decision as a direct infringement on personal freedoms and a clear imposition on individual choice of clothing—particularly in public spaces intended for relaxation and leisure. Such restrictions serve only to reinforce discrimination and perpetuate harmful gender-based and societal stereotypes.

We call on the Ministry of Tourism to reconsider this decision and to foster an inclusive environment that respects the rights of all individuals. We also urge the Ministry to engage in open dialogue with civil society to ensure that future policies are aligned with the principles of human rights and equality.

The Syrian Women’s Political Movement regards this decision as a blatant violation of human rights and a breach of the principle of personal freedom—one of the foundational pillars of any state committed to upholding human dignity and ensuring equality among all citizens, regardless of gender or social background.

Accordingly, we demand that the Ministry of Tourism revoke Decision No. 294 and commit to cultivating a space that respects individual freedoms and rights. We reaffirm our call for transparent dialogue with civil society actors to ensure that future decisions reflect shared values rooted in equality and justice.

We believe that personal freedom is a fundamental right that must never be compromised, and that it is the responsibility of state institutions to protect and promote these rights—not to restrict or undermine them under any pretext.

Long live Syria—its land and its people

General Secretariat of the Syrian Women’s Political Movement

Monday, June 16, 2025