Protecting the Syrian Family: Community Reconstruction and the Unseen Consequences of War

Authors

  • Author

  • Araa Al Jaramani

Keywords:

Syria, Gender, Family System, Post-Conflict Society, International Organizations

Abstract

Since the outbreak of the Syrian revolution in 2011, international and local organizations have played an active role in responding to civilians’ needs. However, their activities have largely ignored the importance of safeguarding the Syrian family system. This study demonstrates how these organizations have disregarded the impact of the protracted war on new family dynamics, particularly the shifting gender roles and the evolving approaches to child-rearing during wartime. Compounding this oversight is the fact that international organizations dominate humanitarian efforts in Syria, often operating according to their own agendas. This raises critical questions about the extent to which these organizations understand the Syria’s diverse family and societal contexts, and whether they recognize the importance of supporting the Syrian family structure.

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