Women’s Agricultural Economy in North and East Syria (Challenges and Opportunities)
In an environment undergoing profound economic and social transformations due to years of conflict and accumulated crises, women in North and East Syria play a pivotal role in the agricultural sector — not only as key contributors to production but also as active forces in building the local economy and ensuring food security for their families and communities.
Women’s agricultural economy constitutes a cornerstone of sustainable rural development, with women playing a prominent role in agricultural production and the management of natural resources, particularly in regions where agriculture remains the primary livelihood source.
This research, issued by the Research and Studies Department of GAV for Relief and Development, offers a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the women’s agricultural economy in the region. It examines the multiple challenges women face in this sector, ranging from access to financing and markets to social and environmental constraints, while also highlighting the empowerment opportunities that can be leveraged for advancement.
Despite assuming vital roles in the agricultural sector — a shift driven by the economic, social, and political conditions resulting from years of conflict and structural changes in local communities — women continue to face significant challenges. These include barriers related to land ownership, access to resources, financing, technology, and persistent social and cultural obstacles that hinder their ability to achieve economic independence.
Using a methodology based on surveys and field observations, this research captures the voices of women engaged in agriculture and offers practical recommendations aimed at policymakers and development organizations to strengthen the role of rural women and promote their economic empowerment.
The study aims to shed light on the reality of the women’s agricultural economy in North and East Syria by examining women’s roles in agricultural production and related value chains, analyzing the barriers that hinder their progress, and exploring available opportunities to enhance their economic participation. This includes fostering local initiatives, supporting women’s cooperatives, and improving access to agricultural resources and markets.
Given the growing importance of women’s roles in rebuilding rural communities, the research discusses strategies to enhance the women’s agricultural economy and adopt supportive policies that include vocational training, credit facilities, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises, alongside creating a social environment conducive to women’s economic empowerment. It also explores potential solutions to overcome the obstacles facing women working in agriculture.
This study contributes to the ongoing dialogue on women’s roles in agricultural development and seeks to offer practical recommendations to help policymakers and development institutions design more equitable and effective policies for promoting the women’s agricultural economy in North and East Syria.
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