The Center for Civil Society and Democracy, in collaboration with MBBI, Alliance for Peacebuilding, ICAN, Vitol Foundation, and the Rotary E-Club for World Peace is creating spaces and platforms for the voices of those impacted at the heart of the conflict. Through a series of virtual meets, we offer an opportunity to hear first-hand accounts directly from individuals at the forefront of the current change sweeping through Syria. As the Assad dictatorship ends, this is a moment of fragility and of historic importance for the future of Syria and the region. New Syrian leadership is emerging to lay the groundwork for what is to come for the country. This is a critical moment to center the voices of Syrians, hear and share their stories, and support them in their work to transform Syria.
To address this need CCSD, MBBI, Alliance for Peacebuilding, ICAN, Vitol Foundation, and the Rotary E-Club for World Peace invite you to join us for this first in a series of events focused on the transition in Syria and history in the making.
Key topics to be covered:
- Impact of the violent conflict and authoritarian regime on the lives of millions of Syrians.
- Identify immediate, intermediate, and long-term needs and concerns during transition
- Share experiences, concerns, and recommendations for the immediate future.
The Center for Civil Society and Democracy has worked with thousands of Syrian women, and we have cultivated a resilient network of Syrian peacebuilders. We have listened to Syrians’ needs and reflected on their aspirations. We understand that including women, youth, and civil society must reflect Syria’s diverse and pluralistic society. We call for establishing partnerships and provide recommendations for all Syrian, regional, and international actors. We insist that women’s rights and meaningful participation in peace and security processes be guaranteed, as mandated by UNSCR 2254, with a minimum 30% quota for equality. While we work on the democratic transition in Syria, we call upon all Syrian actors to ensure transparency and accountability mechanisms at each step in the transition process and governance institutions. We call upon you to work with us to achieve a better future for Syria.
Join speakers Collette Bahna, Author, Jihan Al Saeid, CEO of Jasmine Association, and Suaad Aswad, CEO of Change Makers, as they share their insights on the future of Syria. This event will be facilitated by Rajaa Altalli, CCSD Co-Founder, and Prabha Sankaranarayan, MBBI President and CEO, and will be translated into Arabic and English.
Colette Bahna is a Syrian writer, media personality, and human rights advocate with a diverse and accomplished career. She has authored six books in the field of literature and contributes as a freelance writer to various Arab and international media platforms, including Alhurra. In addition to her literary work, Colette has made a significant impact in the field of drama, having written numerous television series, films, and two theatrical plays. Renowned for her dedication to human rights, she has received several awards recognizing her achievements and contributions. Colette is also a coordination committee member for the “Space for Collaboration” initiative.
Jihan Mahaood Al Saeid is a community advocate with extensive experience in project coordination, education, and psychosocial support. As chairwoman of the Jasmine Association, she oversees impactful initiatives like “Grass of Hope” and “Jasmine Oven,” which empower civil society and support displaced communities. With a Sociology degree from Euphrates University, Jihan has facilitated UNICEF and other local, international, and local-sponsored art exhibitions, awareness campaigns, and educational programs.
Suaad Aswad has extensive experience advocating for women’s and children’s rights in northwest Syria. She previously served as the Director of the Women and Children’s Affairs Office within local councils, where she played a key role in addressing community needs. From 2019 to 2022, Suaad worked as the Executive Director for the “Hand in Hand We Build Tomorrow” project, which focused on raising awareness about the dangers of child marriage in the region. She is the Executive Director of the Change Makers Team, an organization dedicated to empowering women and championing their rights in northwest Syria.
