In brief
Hind Kabawat, serving as Syria's Minister for Social Affairs and Labour, is the first and only female member of the transitional government. Determined to not be a mere token, Kabawat emphasizes the importance of women's participation in governance and social rebuilding efforts. Amidst the ongoing sectarian tensions and the immense challenges of reconstruction, she advocates for inclusivity, reflecting on the pain of her fellow Syrians and striving to create a better future for all citizens.
On the first day, I asked 'why are there no more women? says Hind Kabawat.
She is Syria's minister for social affairs and labour - the only female minister in the transitional government tasked with navigating the country's jagged road from war to peace. Sectarian violence has marred its first months in power, with many of Syria's minority communities blaming government forces.
Once an opposition leader in exile, Kabawat acknowledges the government has made mistakes since President Ahmed al-Sharaa's rebel forces swept into the capital on 8 December 2024, ending decades of the Assad family's brutal dictatorship. Mistakes happen in transition, she insists.
Kabawat asserts one of President Sharaa's biggest mistakes has been not appointing other women in the cabinet, although she claims he has assured her there will be more.
In his cabinet, dominated by his close comrades and some former fighters, Kabawat faces a challenging juggling act. Her documents cover Syria's most vulnerable populations, including orphans and widows, while addressing the urgent necessity of creating jobs and finding homes for millions displaced during nearly 14 years of civil war.
With 90% of Syrians living below the poverty line, the stakes are incredibly high. Kabawat emphasizes the dire need for international partnerships and aid, as rebuilding Syria is projected to cost at least $200 billion.
She remains undeterred by the challenges, confidently stating, I am not here for window dressing. I feel like I am a citizen of Syria... The minute I start feeling like I'm a minority or I'm a woman, I will lose my legitimacy. This mantra drives her commitment to seek a truly inclusive governance structure that reflects the diverse voices of all Syrians.
Kabawat is determined to ensure women have significant roles in decision-making while simultaneously navigating the male-dominated landscape of Syrian politics. Her leadership aims not only to rebuild a nation but also to empower women and foster a spirit of resilience in a society marked by decades of conflict.
