In the group photo of the new Syrian transitional government, Hind Kabawat stands out in her white suit. Appointed to Social Affairs and Labor on Saturday, March 29, this 51-year-old secular Christian is the only woman among 22 men. This fact troubles the women's rights activist, who is determined to fight for better representation of Syrian women within the new authorities.

"I tried to convince them that more female ministers were needed, but it was complicated, with the imperative to ensure ethnic and religious diversity within the government. However, there is no excuse for having only one female minister. I was promised that more women would be appointed to high positions," said Kabawat, seated in the shade of wisterias, on the patio of her traditional house in the old city of Damascus.

During the government's presentation at the Presidential Palace on Saturday, in front of the transitional president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, this specialist in interfaith dialogue and conflict resolution, known for her strong character, endeavored to silence the critics who accuse her of being the "diversity token" within the government. "My ministry is one of the most important in the post-conflict period, given the number of orphans, displaced people and vulnerable people in the country," said the Syrian-Canadian, a mother of two.

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