YUSRA AL-EHMED

Raqqa- Raqqa was liberated from ISIS by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) on October 18, 2017. The women, who have played an important role in rebuilding the city for seven years, keep struggling to ensure gender equality in all facets of life. NuJINHA spoke to Fahima Al-Cassem, Co-mayor of the People’s Municipality in Raqqa, about the activities carried out by women in the city.

 ‘Women play a pioneering role in all facets of life’

Speaking about the success of women in all facets of life in Raqqa, she said, “Women play a pioneering role in all facets of life by taking part in politics, military, economy and social life. Gender equality at the workplace is very important for us.”

‘Women took part in rebuilding of the city’

 “Women have carried out activities in Raqqa to serve their people and to rebuild their city,” said Fatima Al-Cassem, emphasizing that women strive to ensure peace and security wherever they are.

 ‘Sometimes, men refuse our ideas’

Jawaher Hammud, an employee of the health office at the municipality, spoke about what they do. The employees of the health office often visit laboratories, restaurants and facilities to ensure quality of food products. “Women employees face many challenges at work. Sometimes, male employees refuse the ideas of women and look down upon us. This situation, of course, does not affect us, on the contrary, it boosts our self-confidence and makes us feel more courageous,” she told NuJINHA.

‘We have broken the barriers of gender discrimination’

“I do my best to overcome all barriers by keeping working,” said Fatima Hammud Ali, a municipal employee. “My family always supports and encourages me. We have managed to break the barriers built by old traditions and customs that determine the roles of women in society. Women have proven themselves with their strong will and resistance; they have broken the barriers of gender discrimination.”