Strengthening Women's Leadership across the Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus in northwest Syria

Organizers: UN Women and CARE

The recent earthquake in northwest Syria has revealed the vulnerability of the population after more than 12 years of conflict. Women and girls face compounded risks, including food insecurity, loss of income, and increased vulnerability to gender-based violence. Despite these challenges, Syrian women continue to play critical roles in decision-making processes that affect their lives. They contribute to local committees in IDP camps, serve as insider mediators in local communities, and participate in political processes and mediation efforts.

This side-event aims to highlight the essential role of women's leadership across mediation and early recovery efforts at all levels in northwest Syria. It will showcase how women's participation and strategic leadership can provide fresh perspectives and solutions while addressing gender inequality. The event will focus on the specific challenges faced by women in the aftermath of the earthquake and emphasize the importance of supporting Syrian women leaders and women-led organizations.

Confirmed speakers:

Panel I: Moderated by Ajay Madiwale, UN Women WPS-HA Regional Advisor ai for the Arab States

• Dan Stoenescu, Chargé d’affaires of the European Union to Syria

• David Carden, Deputy Regional Humanitarian Coordinator for the Syria Crisis

• Osnat Lubrani, UN Women Director of the Humanitarian Section and Head of the Geneva Office

Panel II: Moderated by Sherine Ibrahim, CARE Türkiye Country Director

• Raghda Zidane, Member of the Syrian Constitutional Committee

• Rouba Mhaissen, Founder and Director of Sawa for Development and Aid

• Reem al Haswani, Women Now for Development

• Lama Andani, Legal Specialist from Northwest Syria

This side event provides a platform for donors, international organizations, and local responders to engage with the gender dynamics of humanitarian, peacebuilding, and early recovery efforts in Syria. The panel discussion will inform the Brussels VII conference and seek to influence its outcomes. The event will be conducted in English with simultaneous Arabic interpretation.