Hind Kabawat: Syria's Pioneering Female Minister Leading Social Change

Tue Feb 03 2026 01:28:59 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As the only woman in Syria's transitional government, Hind Kabawat advocates for women's empowerment and confronts the challenges of rebuilding a war-torn nation.

Hind Kabawat, Syria's sole female minister, is at the forefront of the nation’s effort to transition from civil war to peace. With a commitment to social justice, she pushes for the inclusion of women in governance and addresses the urgent needs of the country’s displaced populations. Despite significant challenges and criticism, she maintains a steadfast belief in the importance of dialogue and inclusion to foster a better future for Syria.

Hind Kabawat: Syria's Pioneering Female Minister Leading Social Change

On her first day in office, Hind Kabawat, Syria's only female minister for social affairs and labor, found herself questioning the absence of women in the country's transitional government. As an advocate for social change in a nation still grappling with the aftermath of war, Kabawat embodies the determination to ensure women's voices are not just heard but amplified.

Since being appointed in March 2025, Kabawat has faced numerous challenges, including sectarian violence and a lack of representation for women in government. With many minorities blaming government forces for ongoing strife, she acknowledges the government's missteps since the end of the Assad family's long-standing rule.

Mistakes happen in transition, she states, asserting that the journey toward a peaceful and inclusive Syria requires patience and continuous effort. One of her primary goals is to create job opportunities and provide housing for millions displaced during the civil war, with 90% of the population living below the poverty line.

Despite criticism regarding the government's response to sectarian violence, Kabawat emphasizes the establishment of an inquiry to address injustices. Her past as an opposition leader and her legal training enhance her resolve to rebuild trust amongst Syria’s diverse communities.

While navigating her role amid a male-dominated cabinet, Kabawat insists she will not be merely a token figure. I am not here for window dressing, she declares, demonstrating her commitment to genuine influence and change.

Beyond political dialogue, her focus is on practical solutions for Syrians coping with poverty, especially women and children living in refugee camps. Her initiatives include training programs to empower women economically, fostering a sense of agency in rebuilding their lives.

As she showcases her capacity for empathy and resilience, Hind Kabawat stands as a symbol of hope and a reminder that the road to recovery and equality in Syria is a collective endeavor requiring courage, commitment, and collaboration.

With the nation's future hanging in the balance, Kabawat emphasizes the need for inclusivity in governance and continuous efforts to uplift all voices within Syrian society.