Syrian Civil Society

Syrian civil society is unique in its characteristics, which are inspired by its distinctive historical development. It has grown gradually to cover a large sector of services, and the beginnings of voluntary associations can be traced back to the end of the 18th century in Syria, specifically with the establishment of the first civil association, "The Quraish Orphanage Charitable Association."

The emergence of such associations was not a luxury, but rather a necessity to meet the community's needs on several levels, especially in times of war and political turmoil.

On the relief level:

We find a number of associations specialized in providing living essentials that work to support low-income families to ensure a decent life. Researchers in the field of civil relief work note the predominance of the charitable character of civil society organizations at the beginning of their formation in Syria, such as orphanages and associations supporting low-income families.

On the social level:

These societies have made a qualitative shift on the social level, working with great efforts to study the state of society and identify its needs. This includes providing psychological support services, youth support programs in the labor market in order to narrow the gap between university life and professional life, through training and workshops that contribute to creating a suitable civil environment for community dialogue, in addition to opening the door to participation in civil activities with a social dimension, which includes civil practices such as participating in dialogue seminars on citizenship issues, or mobilizing to carry out advocacy campaigns for specific social issues such as violence against women or violence against children.

On the developmental level:

We find interest in women's empowerment projects through professional training workshops and small business support programs, with the aim of helping to acquire specific professional skills. There is also participation in civil activities with an educational dimension, as well as providing educational services to children who have dropped out of school, or supporting children's education alongside formal education, or providing awareness to parents of the importance of education.

The importance of civil society:

Civil society, in all its forms, strives daily to protect human rights and improve the situation of groups that suffer from discrimination and deprivation. This is done under different names, from non-governmental organizations, student clubs, unions, charitable associations, and orphanages. In the same context, it also plays an important role in defending the basic rights of citizens, such as the right to housing, education, health, and work. This contributes to confronting burdens and alleviating pressure on the government to achieve justice, equality, and respect for human dignity. Moreover, the fact that it is based on voluntary work makes the sense of initiative and the desire to improve reality the greatest incentive behind work, which enhances the value of citizenship.

Full Article: https://mobaderoon.org/from-the-founder-of-a-wall-magazine-to-an-active-member-of-civil-society/

Author: Wala'a Matta'a

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