The Voices from Syria 2023 report offers an in-depth look at gender-based violence within the Syria crisis, now in its thirteenth year and still one of the world’s most enduring humanitarian emergencies. In 2023, Syrians faced one of the worst years of this crisis, marked by relentless challenges, including ongoing conflict, economic collapse, disease outbreaks, natural disasters, and mass displacement. These intersecting issues have eroded household coping capacities to an all-time low, while funding shortfalls have significantly reduced humanitarian aid. As a result, women and girls, already among the most vulnerable, face escalating risks and hardships.

Throughout Syria, women and girls encounter pervasive forms of gender-based violence, both in public and within their homes. They report daily threats, including sexual violence, forced and child marriage, tech-facilitated abuse, movement restrictions, and the denial of fundamental rights such as education and inheritance. These forms of violence are deeply ingrained in patriarchal norms and institutions that reinforce gender inequality and make it exceedingly difficult for women and girls to seek support or voice their experiences. Risk factors vary based on age, marital status, ability, and displacement, adding further complexity to the threats they face.

Despite these barriers, Syrian women and girls continue to demonstrate resilience, navigating immense challenges to support themselves and their families. They aspire to futures free from violence, with opportunities to study, work, participate in their communities, and be treated as equals. However, dwindling household resources and humanitarian funding have made their resilience more precarious. The Voices from Syria 2023 report gathers perspectives from women, girls, men, and boys across Syria, highlighting the urgent need for targeted gender-based violence programming to address the unique needs of women and girls and to support their safety and well-being in these difficult times.