The Voices for Change series continues this October with a timely and critical discussion on The Rule of Law during Political Transition. In contexts marked by conflict and authoritarianism, moments of political transition often determine whether societies move toward stability, justice, and democracy—or fall back into cycles of repression and instability. This session will explore how the establishment and strengthening of justice systems and legal institutions can provide a foundation for protecting rights, ensuring accountability, and rebuilding public trust.
In addition to insights from Syrian perspectives, the event will feature experiences from Libya’s transition. Professor Jazia Jibril Shaitir, a Libyan legal scholar and advocate, will share lessons from Libya’s efforts to build and protect justice institutions during times of political upheaval. Her reflections, together with those of Syrian lawyer and advocate Dima Mousa, will highlight both the challenges and opportunities of embedding the rule of law in societies navigating transition.
By bringing together perspectives from Syria, Libya, and beyond, this session aims to shed light on the crucial role of legal frameworks and independent institutions in shaping pathways toward peace, accountability, and democratic governance.
Dr. Jazia Jibril Shaitir: is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Law, University of Benghazi, and a prominent legal scholar and activist in criminal law. She has held leadership and advisory roles in academia, contributed to key national legislation including laws on violence against women and national reconciliation, and has extensive experience in legal and security training. Dr. Shaitir has collaborated with international universities and organizations such as Leiden University, UNDP, and ESCWA, and is active in civil society. She has appeared in local media providing legal and human rights analysis and is the author of Legal Reflections: Critical Readings on Libyan Legislation.
Dima Moussa: Damascus-based Syrian lawyer and politician. She holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and a Juris Doctor, both from the United States, where she practiced law until the end of 2012. Actively engaged in the Syrian political opposition since 2011, she joined the Syrian National Coalition in 2016 and became a founding member of the Syrian Women’s Political Movement in 2017. Moussa was elected Vice President of the Syrian National Coalition in May 2018, serving two consecutive terms until July 2020, and was re-elected in September 2023, a position she held until the fall of the former Syrian regime in December 2024. Currently, she focuses her work on transitional justice, alongside broader issues as a legal expert.
Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025
Time: 10:00–11:30 AM (New York) | 5:00–6:30 PM (Damascus) | 4:00–5:30 PM (CET)
Location: Online (Zoom) – Register here
Don’t miss this important conversation. Register now to secure your spot.