Syria's only female minister pushes for change: 'I'm not here for window dressing'

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 8 min read 100% complete February 2, 2026 at 01:28 AM

AI Summary

long article 8 min

Hind Kabawat, Syria's only female minister for social affairs and labour in the transitional government, is pushing for change in a country struggling to transition from war to peace. Appointed in March 2024 after President Ahmed al-Sharaa's forces took control, Kabawat is responsible for addressing the needs of Syria's most vulnerable populations, including orphans, widows, and displaced people. She also works to create jobs and find homes for millions displaced by the 14-year civil war. Kabawat acknowledges the government has made mistakes, including the lack of female representation in the cabinet, but insists she is committed to her role and setting her own strategy. The UN estimates that 90% of Syrians live below the poverty line, and rebuilding the country will cost an estimated $200 billion.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

BBC ×230% World Bank 40% Aleppo 40% UN 50% Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) 50% Assad family 60% Ahmed al-Sharaa ×270% Hind Kabawat ×790% Syria ×7100%

Keywords

syria 100% female minister 90% hind kabawat 80% transitional government 70% social affairs 60% civil war 60% poverty 50% women in government 50% rebuilding syria 50% political transition 40%