Syria restricts women from most defense and security university programs

Syrian authorities have implemented new admissions policies that restrict women from enrolling in most degree programs at two newly established state institutions dedicated to defense and security. The restrictions apply to the National University of Defense Sciences and the Syrian University for Security Sciences, with applications set to close on October 19, 2026.

At the National University of Defense Sciences, programs in law, economics, management, and social sciences are reserved exclusively for men. Male students are also the only ones permitted to enroll in military colleges for the land, naval, and air forces. The only component of this institution open to women is the Higher Institute for Applied Sciences and Technology, which does not require a military service commitment.

At the Syrian University for Security Sciences, women are barred from most tracks, with the exception of cybersecurity programs. Graduates from the university’s security science and technical institutes are required to serve in the Internal Security Forces or other designated bodies for 10 to 20 years.

Human Rights Watch has characterized these rules as discriminatory, stating they violate international legal obligations and reinforce gender stereotypes. While Damascus University continues to admit women to all programs, these new specialized institutions are effectively excluding women from training as officers, lawyers, or administrators within the state's military and security apparatus.