Freedom Jasmine Organization Foundation and Objectives:
Freedom Jasmine is a humanitarian and human rights organization founded in 2015 in Gaziantep by a group of survivors and human rights advocates who endured severe humanitarian experiences. It was officially registered in Turkey in January 2017 with the aim of supporting the most vulnerable groups and survivors of violence and detention.
The organization strives to provide essential assistance to internally displaced persons and those living in difficult conditions in conflict areas. It also conducts awareness campaigns, offers counseling and education, and works closely with women, children, and survivors who have been victims of gender-based or sexual violence. Their programs aim to ensure respect for the rights of these individuals, empower them to reintegrate into society, and provide the necessary support for building a self-sustained future.
The Organization’s Adopted Plan:
Freedom Jasmine considers the needs of the most vulnerable and marginalized groups, employing a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to improve women’s status in society and promote their rights. The organization is committed to designing and participating in comprehensive programs that respect diverse cultural dynamics and support environmental values. Their goal is to adopt an evidence-based approach that empowers women to contribute effectively to society.
The organization also seeks to enhance collaboration with national and international bodies, aiming to continuously improve and expand these relationships. Freedom Jasmine aspires to be a leader and contributor in civil society and the humanitarian sector, working towards rebuilding Syrian society by making progress in social, intellectual, and cultural dimensions.
Programs and Projects by Freedom Jasmine:
Key programs and projects carried out by the organization include:
1. Early Recovery: A fundamental part of their strategic operations.
2. Economic Empowerment: Implementing several projects in economic empowerment with support from GIZ.
3. Advocacy: Focusing on advocating for human rights and humanitarian issues, particularly related to enforced disappearances and detainees, with a special emphasis on children and women.
4. Humanitarian Assistance:Working in several humanitarian sectors, notably protection and food security.
5. Raising Awareness and Capacity Building:
Focusing on protection-related issues such as domestic violence, child recruitment, detainees, and the forcibly disappeared, as well as global issues like raising awareness about health practices during the COVID-19 pandemic and legal awareness.
Additionally, Freedom Jasmine has been involved in various international and regional activities, including producing documentary films.
Community Engagement of the Organization:
Freedom Jasmine’s community engagement is highlighted through numerous partnerships with local organizations, local councils, and stakeholders, particularly within Syria. The organization also collaborates effectively with some members of the Syrian Democratic Alliance, especially on political and legal matters.
Challenges and Achievements of Freedom Jasmine:
The main challenges include dealing with de facto authorities, decreased donor funding, and a lack of awareness in the community about the importance of legal, political, and social awareness. The organization has addressed these challenges by working with licensed local partners in areas controlled by de facto authorities, operating at minimal costs, and relying on volunteer work to maintain support for humanitarian efforts amid reduced funding.
Future Plans of the Organization:
The organization’s future plans involve continuing its work in its specialized sectors and expanding partnerships with stakeholders, local organizations, and networks. Notably, Freedom Jasmine leads the WECAN women’s network and is a member of the steering committee of the Syrian Networks League (SNL).