Dozens of women from Syria’s Alawite community have reportedly been kidnapped in the months following the fall of former president Bashar al-Assad, according to activists and advocacy groups.

The Syrian Feminist Lobby (SFL) says it has recorded reports of more than 80 missing women since early 2025 and confirmed at least 26 cases of abduction. Nearly all those reported missing belong to the Alawite sect, a minority group that comprises around 10% of Syria’s population.

Allegations of abuse and intimidation

Several women and family members told international media they were abducted by armed men who claimed to be security personnel. Survivors described being beaten, detained in isolated locations and subjected to threats and sexual violence.

Some families allege that local authorities failed to conduct thorough investigations. Syria’s interior ministry previously said it had examined dozens of reported kidnappings, stating that most claims were unfounded. Officials have denied systemic wrongdoing but acknowledged isolated incidents.

Sectarian tensions

The reported kidnappings come amid heightened sectarian tensions in western Syria. In March, violence in coastal regions reportedly left more than 1,400 people dead, most of them Alawite civilians, according to human rights groups.

Amnesty International has said it received credible reports of at least 36 Alawite women and girls being abducted earlier this year. It noted that families often received limited information regarding investigations.

Climate of fear

Activists say a climate of impunity and instability may be contributing to the incidents. Some observers argue that ideological motives and revenge narratives have fuelled hostility toward Alawite communities, while others point to opportunistic criminal behaviour amid weakened governance.

Many affected families remain reluctant to speak publicly due to fear of stigma or retaliation. Advocacy groups have called for transparent investigations and stronger protections for vulnerable communities.

Authorities have not issued fresh statements in response to the latest allegations.