Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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October 22, 2025 Peace and security
Speaking at a Security Council meeting on Wednesday, the UN Secretary-General's Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, Najat Roshdi, stressed the need for urgent steps to ensure an inclusive transformation in the country, particularly with regard to the political participation of women and members of ethnic and religious minorities.
Women are the key to Syria's future
Roshdi noted that the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 is an opportunity to reaffirm women's right to participate in peacebuilding in Syria. Despite President Ahmed al-Shara's promises to form an "inclusive transitional government," women remain underrepresented: of the 119 elected members of the Transitional People's Assembly, only six are women. Their representation in electoral bodies and among candidates also remains minimal.
"Syrian women are the country's greatest resource. They want to participate in political transformation—and they should be able to do so on equal terms with men," Roshdi said.
Critical remarks
According to Roshdi, the October 5 elections were generally peaceful, despite isolated incidents, including the murder of a candidate in Tartus. However, the election process was met with criticism regarding opaque procedures, weak civil society engagement, and limited representation of ethnic and religious communities. Among those elected were only one Christian, three Ismailis, three Alawites, four Kurds, and no Druze. Consequently, the Deputy Special Envoy called for a more inclusive approach in future elections.
Economy and sanctions
Roshdi emphasized that without large-scale international support, the transition process in Syria is doomed to failure. She called for the swift lifting of sanctions, including export restrictions, and welcomed the US Senate's decision to repeal the Caesar Act (a set of measures aimed at economically isolating the Assad regime – editor's note).
Call for respect for Syria's sovereignty
Roshdi condemned ongoing attempts at external interference, including Israeli operations in the south of the country, and called for the 1974 disengagement agreement to be respected. She stressed the importance of dialogue and international support, particularly in the context of concerns among Druze and Bedouin about their future in Syria.
In closing, Roshdi reaffirmed the UN's commitment to supporting the Syrian people and the country's new authorities in building a secure, inclusive, and prosperous future.
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