Syria: New Govt. Appoints First Woman as Central Bank’s Head
The Facts
Syria's new administration on Monday appointed Maysaa Sabrine as the governor of the Central Bank of Syria, making her the first woman to hold the position in its over 70-year history. Sabrine has also been the institution's first deputy governor and supervising director.
Sabrine — who also represented the central bank on the Damascus Securities Exchange board — replaced Mohammed Issam Hazime, who was appointed in 2021 by then-Pres. Bashar al-Assad.
The Spin
Narrative A
Maysaa Sabrine's appointment as Syria's first female central bank chief is a groundbreaking moment, highlighting the vast potential of Syrian women. Yet, it's only a first step. True progress demands dismantling barriers in every sphere — homes, workplaces, and society at large. Syrian women deserve not just symbolic victories but a revolution that grants them full equality and opportunity. This milestone must inspire a broader, bolder push for lasting change that genuinely transforms their lives.
Narrative B
Syria's appointment of its first female central bank chief is a token gesture by a regime entrenched in archaic, misogynistic traditions. The move starkly contrasts with pervasive sexism in governance, exemplified by officials' recent dismissive rhetoric on women's capabilities. While framed as progress, this appointment masks systemic exclusion, denying women substantive roles in rebuilding the nation. Such actions underscore a disingenuous view of gender equality.
