Mapping strategic entry points for gender equality and SRHR in Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon
In response to the evolving priorities of Sweden’s Regional Strategy for the Syria Crisis (2024–2026), a recent assignment was undertaken in partnership with the Nordic Consulting Group in Sweden to identify strategic entry points for strengthening gender equality and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) across Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. The objective was clear: to support Sida in aligning its funding and influence with the region’s most pressing needs, leveraging its longstanding commitment to transformative, rights-based programming.
An assignment grounded in purpose
At the heart of this initiative was the recognition that women and girls in fragile contexts continue to face systemic barriers to equality—barriers that limit their access to essential services, expose them to heightened risks of gender-based violence, and undermine their fundamental rights. The assignment aimed to chart a path forward to catalyse change in this space, ensuring its contributions are not only effective but also sustainable, intersectional, and rooted in human rights.
Specifically, the assignment focused on:
Mapping major gaps in SRHR and gender equality programming.
Identifying donor trends and synergies, especially those involving UN agencies and international NGOs.
Identifying the most pressing needs on gender equality, SRHR, including GBV and child marriage in Syria, Jordan and Lebanon
Assessing Sweden’s comparative advantage in promoting systemic change across the humanitarian-development-peace nexus.
Providing actionable recommendations to guide future programming and partnerships in the region.
A robust and inclusive methodology
To inform strategic decision-making, the assignment employed a multi-pronged methodology combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches.
1. Desk Review:
A thorough analysis of existing reports, policy briefs, and publicly available donor data was undertaken to inform the review of the most pressing needs in the thematic areas. This review provided the foundation for identifying priority themes, persistent gaps, and potential areas of engagement.
2. Donor Mapping:
The team conducted a detailed mapping of major donors, thematic areas of focus, and financial channels. It was also used to map current priorities and programming, from which we identified gaps. This exercise revealed opportunities for coordination, highlighted funding imbalances, and identified actors whose work intersects with Sweden’s values and objectives.
3. Key Informant Interviews:
Sixteen in-depth interviews were held with representatives from donor agencies and Sida partners. These conversations offered valuable insights into context-specific challenges, partnership dynamics, and emerging trends—ensuring that the analysis reflected lived realities and ground-level perspectives.
4. Deliverables for Action:
The mission culminated in two main outputs:
A 20-page analytical report containing findings, strategic recommendations, and priority actions
A PowerPoint presentation designed to support decision-making and stakeholder engagement at the Swedish Embassy in Beirut .
A rights-based foundation
Human rights served as a cross-cutting lens throughout the mission. Emphasis was placed on protecting and promoting the rights of women and girls, including their access to sexual and reproductive health services, protection from gender-based violence, and the elimination of harmful practices such as child marriage. The mission also addressed the importance of inclusive service delivery—particularly for persons with disabilities, LGBTQ+ communities, and other marginalised groups.
Importantly, the team acknowledged the political sensitivities involved in advancing human rights in the region. Recommendations were crafted to support a context-sensitive approach that fosters local ownership and avoids harm, while laying the groundwork for long-term systems change.