The Space for Collaboration
Location: Syria
Key(s): Peace and Security
The Space for Collaboration, founded by the Center for Civil Society and Democracy in 2014, offers a safe space for women to have many important and difficult conversations about the social changes needed for Syria. This space connects Syrian women from civil society organizations, many of whom are defenders of Syrian women’s rights, with Syrian women who have responsibilities and influence at the local and national tracks. This project focuses on strengthening solidarity, cooperation, and coordination between Syrian women that represent diverse professional backgrounds and geographies including women in decision making positions. Women in this space discuss the political process and political solutions for Syria. Through conferences, facilitated dialogues and ongoing online meetings they share their experiences and exchange expertise.
In 2021, Rockflower began providing funding to the Space for Collaboration. So far this funding has enabled CCSD to facilitate two online dialogues on the political process, two advocacy meetings about change in the political parties with respect to women’s inclusion, and two internal organizing meetings. The result has been that women at the national level are better informed when advocating for human rights and women's rights and influencing national and international decision-makers on Syrian issues. Women working at the grassroots level feel supported and are more effective in reaching their goals. At all levels of decision-making and influence, broader participation of Syrian women in the future of Syria is promoted.
Given the complexity of the situation that now exists for Syrians, whether in-country or in exile, and the diminished role for so many Syrian women, having space to have conversations, to debate and collaborate is essential to both see and understand what is happening and to develop the capacity to better serve the Syrian cause.
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