A Makeup Ban in Syria for Women in Government and Public Sector Stirs Outrage

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by Raja Abdulrahim

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A recent decision by the governor of Latakia province in Syria to ban women in government and public sector jobs from wearing makeup has sparked widespread outrage and humor, with memes flooding social media. The announcement has been met with sharp criticism, particularly among women who view it as an overreach of religious conservatism in a diverse society. Sultana Fawaz, a prominent Syrian influencer, sarcastically suggested that the ban could be part of a broader effort by conservative leaders to enforce stricter Islamic norms, possibly even leading women to cover their hair and faces. The backlash reflects deeper concerns about the potential influence of Islamist groups within the national government, which is dominated by former rebel factions. Many Syrians see this move as an indicator of growing religious fundamentalism, particularly in regions where conservative ideologies are gaining traction. The ban has also been mocked online, with memes comparing women without makeup to men and questioning the practicality of such restrictions. While the governor claims the decision was made to promote professionalism and equality in the workplace, critics argue that it undermines gender diversity and reinforces traditional gender roles. Women’s rights advocates fear this could set a precedent for imposing more restrictive religious laws across Syria, where diverse religious and ethnic communities coexist. The backlash highlights the tension between political ideology and individual freedoms, particularly for women, in a country still recovering from years of conflict. This controversy matters because it underscores the ongoing struggle over women's rights and the role of religion in governance in Syria. It also reflects broader concerns about the direction of the government under Islamist leadership, particularly regarding how policies affect

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/20/2026