Muzna Duraid, a member of the Syrian Women’s Political Movement, reported during a briefing she presented before the Security Council on Friday, February 13, 2026, that the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs refused to allow the movement to hold its seventh general conference in Damascus, which necessitated its transfer to Beirut.
In the context of her briefing, Muzna Duraid wondered how comprehensive and comprehensive political laws could be formulated in Syria, while the parties calling for these laws are not allowed to meet inside the country, pointing out that the lack of a law regulating the work of parties is being used as an excuse to obstruct political activity.
Duraid also criticized the lack of political will regarding the representation of Syrian women, noting that recent diplomatic appointments did not include any women, and that the current government includes only one female minister.
She stressed that any political transformation in Syria will not be legitimate without the real and effective participation of women, explaining that the issue is not related to a lack of capabilities, but rather to the absence of serious political will.
The member of the Women’s Political Movement highlighted the ongoing security risks facing Syrian women, including sectarian-motivated kidnappings and murders, in addition to the patriarchal mentality rooted in the regime and society, which hinders women’s progress and protection.
She concluded her speech by emphasizing the disparity in rights between the sexes, stating that as a “returning woman” she faces legal and social restrictions that men are not exposed to, and stressing that rights that require prior approval are not rights in the true sense.
