In a historic move, Maysaa Sabreen has been appointed as the first female governor of the Central Bank of Syria (CBS), marking a significant milestone in the nation’s history and signaling the Syrian Transitional Government’s (STG) commitment to inclusivity and reform. Her appointment underscores a vision for a reimagined Syria, emphasizing competence, stability, and gender equality in leadership roles.
A Trailblazing Career in Banking
Sabreen brings decades of banking and financial expertise to her new role. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in accounting, as well as a Certified Public Accountant certificate, all from Damascus University, where she also earned her Ph.D. in December 2024.
Her career at the Central Bank of Syria spans multiple leadership roles, including First Deputy Governor, Supervisory Director, and Director of the Government Commission Directorate. Sabreen has also served as a member of the Board of Directors for the Damascus Securities Exchange since 2018, showcasing her deep knowledge of Syria’s financial ecosystem.
Sabreen takes the reins from Muhammad Essam Hazima, who was appointed in 2021 during the former Assad regime. This appointment breaks a 68-year precedent of male governors leading the Central Bank and is seen as a significant step in empowering women in Syria’s post-revolution governance.
An Important Appointment
The STG’s decision to appoint Sabreen is being widely interpreted as a deliberate and symbolic statement to both domestic and international audiences. Moreover, her selection highlights the STG’s intention to maintain the Central Bank’s independence from political interference – a stark contrast to its role under the Assad regime. During Assad’s rule, the bank was often used as a tool to implement presidential directives, which critics say contributed to the country’s economic instability under Assad. Sabreen’s career trajectory within the banking sector signals a prioritization of expertise and continuity over political affiliations.
Stabilizing a Shattered Economy
The challenges awaiting Sabreen are formidable. Years of war, sanctions, and economic mismanagement have left Syria’s economy in shambles. The Syrian pound remains volatile, and public trust in financial institutions is fragile.
One of her primary tasks will be to restructure Syria’s banking sector, eliminate corruption, and address the prevalence of bad debts – a legacy of political favoritism under the former regime. “Sabreen must immediately begin rooting out corruption, favoritism, and bad debts that have plagued the banking sector for years,” noted a financial analyst familiar with Syria’s economic landscape.
Additionally, restoring the value of the Syrian pound (SYP) will require rebuilding foreign reserves, boosting export revenues, attracting foreign investment, and pursuing assets looted by the previous regime. These efforts will demand coordination with other state agencies and international partners.
A Signal for Stability & Continuity
The move shows that the STG aims to reassure Syrians and the international community of its commitment to financial stability. Her familiarity with the CBS’s inner workings and her extensive experience managing monetary policy make her uniquely qualified to lead the institution during this critical period.
Her role will also extend beyond monetary policy. She is expected to influence other critical sectors, including the Damascus Securities Exchange and the Monetary and Credit Council, ensuring alignment with the transitional government’s economic goals.
A New Era for Syrian Women
Sabreen’s historic appointment alongside the establishment of the Women’s Affairs Office (WAO) also reflects the broader vision of the STG to empower women in Syria’s rebuilding process. Her leadership is expected to inspire more women to take on prominent roles in the country’s political, economic, and social spheres, as the STG moves toward fostering a more inclusive society.
No Sure Bets
Sabreen’s journey as the first female governor of the Central Bank of Syria will be closely watched. Her success will depend on her ability to navigate a complex web of economic, political, and social challenges. Yet, her appointment marks a pivotal moment for Syria – one that signals hope for a future built on merit, equality, and stability.
As Syria continues its transitional phase, Sabreen’s leadership at the helm of its financial nerve center will serve as a litmus test for the STG’s commitment to reform and rebuilding the nation on a foundation of trust and transparency.
