Analysis Is Syria’s Sharaa poised to outdo Turkey in formalizing gains for Kurds? Damascus is making limited but tangible progress in its engagement with Syrian Kurds, even as Ankara seeks to shape the terms of any settlement. By Amberin Zaman Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture
Iran formally allows women to drive motorcycles: What to know The new resolution comes amid widespread unrest in Iran, where massive nationwide protests triggered by economic hardship and a severe government crackdown have shaken cities across the country. Iran
Culture Lebanon’s first lady Nehmat Aoun takes center stage during Pope's visit Lebanon’s first lady, Nehmat Aoun, attended nearly all gatherings and visits of Pope Leo during his three-day trip to Beirut, highlighting her active involvement in social and humanitarian issues. Lebanon
Lebanon’s citizenship offer for FIFA head sparks debate over equal rights Lebanon’s president has announced he will grant citizenship to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, sparking a wave of outrage. Lebanon
Hotline helps Lebanese talk about sex With no sex education in Lebanon's schools, the launch of a new hotline gives the Lebanese a chance to ask their questions related to sex, relationships, sexual health and gender identity. Lebanon
Tunisian president calls for gender equality in inheritance law Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi’s proposal on National Women’s Day to amend the inheritance law so as to secure equal rights for women sparked much controversy in Tunisia. Tunisia
Gaza civil society organizations aim to empower women The 2017 Women's Leadership Incubator project will empower a team of civil society organizations in the Gaza Strip to strengthen their staff’s sensitivity and response to the needs and rights of marginalized women. Palestine
New Tunisian law takes long stride toward gender equality Tunisia’s parliament passed landmark legislation to fight violence against women in the country. Tunisia
Mystery shrouds disappearance of first female mayor in Egypt’s Sharqiyah After Egyptian female activists thought that the appointment of a woman as mayor would serve the cause of female empowerment, they were surprised by her disappearance 120 days ago under mysterious circumstances. Egypt
Women gain foothold at Iran's seminaries In Iran, institutional change in favor of women’s participation at seminaries is moving ahead at an exceptional pace. Iran
Palestinian women earn sweet money as pastry chefs Once considered taboo, women take over pastry-making in West Bank sweets factory. Palestine
