Diverse female presence marks first Syrian parliament after regime change

The first Syrian parliament formed after the ousting of the previous regime has seen a notable, though modest, female presence, with 22 women among its 207 members—about 10 percent. This figure is close to the 9.6 percent female representation in the last parliament under former President Bashar Assad in 2024.

The women in the new parliament come from a range of backgrounds, including a well-known actress, a novelist from Homs, a Kurdish leader from Hasakah, a Christian engineer from Latakia, and a veiled widow of an Islamic faction leader. This diversity reflects an effort by authorities to project greater inclusivity in a key institution following criticism over the lack of representation for various groups and the role of women in the transitional phase.

Among the most prominent new members is actress Rozina Lazkani, 36, who was appointed by President Ahmed Al-Shara as part of the constitutionally designated third of the chamber. Originally from Hama, Lazkani is known for her roles in TV dramas such as "Al-Hayba" and "Awlad Badi'a." She admitted in a televised interview that her appointment came as a surprise, stressing that she is not a politician despite her fame.

Christian academic Madonna Bashara, 38, a professor of engineering in Latakia, moved from the lecture hall to parliament after being appointed by Al-Shara and was later elected as the council's second deputy speaker. Bashara emphasized that women's participation in parliament should not be merely symbolic, expressing hope for a "legislative revolution" to meet Syrians' aspirations.

Kurdish leader Fasla Youssef, 56, attended the first session in traditional Kurdish dress, representing the Kurdish National Council in Hasakah. Youssef said she feels responsible for defending all Syrian communities, with a special focus on Kurdish and women's rights, especially amid Kurdish concerns over the integration of Kurdish administration into state institutions.

Novelist Nour Jandali, 48, representing Homs, hopes the parliament will become a space for dialogue among Syrians. Jandali, author of more than 20 books and active in civil movements since 2011, said she is determined to bring real change to the chamber.

Also notable is Mervat Toto, the first veiled member of parliament. From Idlib, Toto holds a degree in commerce and economics and worked as a teacher for 13 years. She is the widow of the late military commander Osama Namoura (Abu Omar Saraqib), a prominent figure in opposition factions. President Al-Shara and his wife received her last year at the presidential palace during a ceremony honoring the families of martyrs.

Among the members is also Aisha Al-Dabbas, who was appointed director of the Women's Affairs Office upon her arrival in Damascus. Her statements about the role of women have sparked widespread debate.