In a rare and symbolic gathering, Ahmad al-Sharaa, current president of the Syrian Arab Republic (SAR), met earlier this week with a delegation of Syrian-American women at the People’s Palace in Damascus. The meeting, attended by Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, marked a pivotal official engagement between the new administration and members of the Syrian diaspora in the United States, reflecting an effort to strengthen ties with expatriate communities and project a more open and inclusive image.
Dr. Abdulhafeez Sharaf, a member of the Syrian American Alliance for Peace and Prosperity (SAAPP), noted that the reception reflected a commitment to adopting “modern diplomatic standards.” He also pointed out that the women in the delegation were free to dress as they wished, with some wearing headscarves and others not, a striking contrast to past state-imposed dress codes.
Women’s Rights & Leadership in the New Syria
During the meeting, the delegation presented several proposals, including the appointment of women to key leadership roles in government and international representation. Al-Sharaa responded diplomatically, stating that appointments would be made based on “competence without discrimination” while affirming his commitment to advancing women’s rights and empowerment in various fields.
“Syrian women have always played an active and distinguished role in society,” al-Sharaa said, emphasizing that their contributions are vital to the country’s reconstruction efforts.
One of the attendees, Syrian-American physician Dr. Reem al-Bazm, expressed gratitude for the meeting, writing on social media: “On behalf of myself and the delegation of Syrian-American women, we thank Commander Ahmad al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani for their time. We were also very happy to meet his wife, Mrs. Latifa al-Sharaa.”
A New Era for Women’s Representation in Syria
Head of the Women’s Affairs Office (WAO), Aisha al-Debs met with Jessica Svardström, Chargé d’Affaires of the Swedish Embassy, to discuss concrete initiatives aimed at supporting Syrian women and families. The meeting focused on research into the needs of Syria’s most vulnerable populations, the rehabilitation of destroyed infrastructure, and international cooperation in development projects. Al-Debs expressed optimism that the recent suspension of sanctions on the former regime would open the door for tangible progress in these areas.
The SAAPP also issued a statement highlighting the broader efforts to integrate women’s voices into governance. The delegation’s meeting with al-Sharaa touched on education, economic recovery, human rights, and the role of technology in reconstruction. Discussions also centered on establishing national funds to support families affected by conflict and launching financial grants and training programs to stimulate economic stability.
Dr. Sarah al-Qarf, a member of the delegation, emphasized the need for national unity as a foundation for rebuilding Syria, while Hind al-Hanawi discussed strategies for lifting international sanctions through an intensified diplomatic campaign. Ran Hashem, another delegate, spoke on the importance of digital innovation in overcoming economic barriers, boosting productivity, and accelerating Syria’s recovery.
Responding to these proposals, al-Sharaa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the civil role in shaping Syria’s future, underscoring that national cohesion is essential for achieving lasting stability.
A Personal & Unexpected Moment
In an unexpected move, al-Sharaa introduced his wife, Latifa al-Sharaa, to the delegation, offering a rare glimpse into his personal life. The moment was seen as a deliberate effort to humanize Syria’s new leader and break from the rigid, authoritarian image associated with past rulers.
Al-Sharaa, addressing longstanding rumors about his personal life, joked with the attendees: “By God, she is the only one, and there is no other. What you hear on social media is just rumors.” The comment, lighthearted in nature, resonated with the delegation, who engaged in conversation with Mrs. al-Sharaa.
Dr. Sharaf, who attended the meeting, described her as “a respectable, young woman who wears the hijab (head covering) but not the niqab (face covering) and dresses in the traditional style of veiled Syrian women.”
Lifting Sanctions & Transitional Justice
Beyond discussions on gender inclusion, the meeting also touched on the wider political and economic issues, particularly Syria’s push to lift international sanctions. Al-Sharaa reiterated his administration’s position that lifting sanctions is essential to economic recovery and reconstruction.
He also addressed concerns over accountability and justice in the post-Assad era, stating that “transitional justice must balance both accountability and reconciliation” to ensure Syria can move forward without being trapped by the past.
