Femena expresses its concerns over the restrictions on personal freedoms in Syria under the transitional government. Recent measures indicate a troubling pattern of limitations on rights and personal choices, raising serious human rights concerns. In March 2026, authorities in Damascus imposed restrictions on the sale of alcohol in restaurants and public places, limiting access and effectively controlling long-standing social practices. At the same time, reports from Latakia indicate the introduction of restrictive practices within government institutions, including bans on makeup and increased scrutiny of women’s appearance, alongside broader pressures related to dress and conduct in public spaces. These aren’t merely minor policy shifts; they are direct violations of the right to privacy and the freedom to live without discrimination. Because the current constitutional declaration lacks clear, enforceable safeguards, these fundamental rights are left open to dangerously broad interpretation, putting the very concept of a free society at risk.
We are calling on the transitional authorities to immediately reverse these restrictive policies and realign their actions with international human rights standards. A genuine transition toward peace cannot be built on coercion or the fear of reprisal; it must be rooted in the dignity of the individual. Authorities must guarantee that all citizens, particularly women, have the right to make their own choices regarding their lifestyle and public participation without government overreach. For Syria to achieve a future of lasting justice, the voices of feminist actors and women human rights defenders must be central to the political framework. Respect for diversity and equality isn’t a secondary concern, it is the only way to ensure a transition that is truly inclusive and sustainable.