On her first day as Syria's minister for social affairs and labor, Hind Kabawat posed an important question: 'Why are there no more women?' As the only female member of the transitional government, tasked with steering a path from war to peace, she believes women's involvement is crucial for sustainable change. With a tumultuous background, including time as an opposition leader in exile, Kabawat is acutely aware of the societal challenges that persist in post-Assad Syria, marked by sectarian violence and the ongoing need for economic development.
Kabawat recognizes the urgency of job creation and housing for millions displaced during the prolonged civil war while also working to assist orphans, widows, and families affected by the previous regime's policies. The United Nations estimates that 90% of Syrians live below the poverty line, underscoring the severe socio-economic issues that need immediate attention.
During her tenure, one of her criticisms of President Ahmed al-Sharaa's administration has been the lack of female representation in the cabinet. At the same time, she champions the idea of mistakes being part of the transition, while emphasizing the continuous need for dialogue to foster trust between the government and citizens. Kabawat insists that the nation cannot thrive without inclusivity, stating, 'Nobody controls me,' reinforcing her desire for autonomy in her role.
In various community engagements, Kabawat has sought to empower women, urging them to assert their roles in politics and decision-making. She challenges her audience when they fail to secure representation, pressing for strategic unity among women to encourage their election into leadership roles. As a trained lawyer and negotiator educated internationally, she employs dialogue as a tool for healing and bridging societal divides.
Despite the daunting landscape—rubble from destroyed homes and camps housing displaced populations—Kabawat interacts with dedication, bringing some relief and hopeful energy to the lives she touches. 'I see the suffering... and feel responsible,' she says, as she grapples with the weight of expectations and realities in her historic role. With the backdrop of Syria's complex political landscape, she continues to advocate for a more inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous future.
Kabawat recognizes the urgency of job creation and housing for millions displaced during the prolonged civil war while also working to assist orphans, widows, and families affected by the previous regime's policies. The United Nations estimates that 90% of Syrians live below the poverty line, underscoring the severe socio-economic issues that need immediate attention.
During her tenure, one of her criticisms of President Ahmed al-Sharaa's administration has been the lack of female representation in the cabinet. At the same time, she champions the idea of mistakes being part of the transition, while emphasizing the continuous need for dialogue to foster trust between the government and citizens. Kabawat insists that the nation cannot thrive without inclusivity, stating, 'Nobody controls me,' reinforcing her desire for autonomy in her role.
In various community engagements, Kabawat has sought to empower women, urging them to assert their roles in politics and decision-making. She challenges her audience when they fail to secure representation, pressing for strategic unity among women to encourage their election into leadership roles. As a trained lawyer and negotiator educated internationally, she employs dialogue as a tool for healing and bridging societal divides.
Despite the daunting landscape—rubble from destroyed homes and camps housing displaced populations—Kabawat interacts with dedication, bringing some relief and hopeful energy to the lives she touches. 'I see the suffering... and feel responsible,' she says, as she grapples with the weight of expectations and realities in her historic role. With the backdrop of Syria's complex political landscape, she continues to advocate for a more inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous future.
