About EPISA
Empower Peace Initiatives and Strategies of Action
EPISA (Empower Peace Initiatives and Strategies of Action) is a non-profit, non-governmental civil society organization. Its work began in Türkiye in 2017 and it was officially registered there in 2021. In Syria, EPISA is licensed in Damascus under License No. 9935.
EPISA works to promote democratic governance, peacebuilding and inclusive development across Syria. The organization is dedicated to empowering individuals, civil society organizations and communities, with a strong focus on sustainable development, protection, women's empowerment and support for marginalized groups.
Its team includes technical experts, field staff in Syria and volunteers, all committed to humanitarian principles and responsive to local needs. EPISA engages in advocacy, capacity building and partnership building to achieve its vision of a peaceful, inclusive and sustainable Syria.
Vision
A resilient, stable and just Syrian society led by local communities, where dignity is upheld and a culture of peace and active citizenship is deeply rooted. A society capable of overcoming the impacts of conflict and rebuilding its social fabric from the ground up, through initiatives led by women, youth and grassroots communities.
Mission
To strengthen the resilience, dignity and civic engagement of Syrian communities by delivering protection and peacebuilding services, empowering women- and youth-led initiatives, and providing inclusive educational opportunities for children and adolescents. Through strategic training, advocacy and locally driven programming, EPISA builds sustainable systems that foster active citizenship, social recovery and community-led development throughout Syria. Our goal is to foster social cohesion, participatory governance and sustainable peace led by the people themselves.
What we stand for
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Diversity
True development must respect the unique fabric of societies. We see the diversity within Syrian society as a natural and enriching aspect, and we work for equal opportunities, respect for freedoms, acceptance of differences and coexistence.
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Active participation and shared achievement
We believe that sustainable change emerges through collective effort and mutual respect.
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Converting words into deeds
Our commitment lies in translating rhetoric into meaningful and impactful deeds that drive positive transformation within communities.
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Responsibility and accountability
We engage and cooperate with all Syrians, and we deal with all segments of Syrian society without discrimination.
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Justice and equality
International human rights standards and principles are the foundation of our work.
Milestones
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2017
EPISA begins its work in Türkiye.
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2021
EPISA is officially registered in Türkiye as a non-profit civil society organization.
Women's leadership
Women's leadership is a cornerstone of EPISA's identity, reflected through gender balance at every level, from planning and execution to team formation and policy design. Today EPISA is led by qualified women, with more than half of its Board of Directors composed of women: a model of inclusive, competence-based governance.
Policies and accountability
EPISA operates with a comprehensive set of policies that ensure effective and transparent management across all departments. A robust financial system is overseen by a certified legal accountant, alongside regular internal monitoring and evaluation that improve performance and ensure quality implementation.
Partner with EPISA
We welcome partnerships with donors, civil society organizations, networks and volunteers who share our commitment to local leadership and human dignity.
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