DUDERIS
STORY
Duderi, an ancient cave located near the village of Burj Abdullo in Afrin, holds the remarkable distinction of being the site where the oldest Neanderthal skeleton was discovered.​​ The caves’ unique structure, featuring two doors, the
Door of Heaven
and the
Door of Earth
has inspired the name and vision of our organization. In kurdish DUDERI reflects this dual gateway, symbolizing the belief that the human mind requires more than one path to truly flourish.​ At DUDERI, we embrace this philosophy:
One door is not enough for the mind.
​We seek to open multiple doors, doors of knowledge, understanding, and critical thinking. Our mission is grounded in the idea that building a future based on social justice, democracy, and inclusion requires more than a single perspective. It demands that we tear down the walls of division, particularly those erected between Arab and Kurdish communities, walls that have stifled communication and hindered the recognition of shared humanity.
DUDERIs story is deeply tied to the need for critical thinking and pluralism as essential tools for a united and democratic Syria. By embracing diversity, whether of ethnicity, religion, or gender, we aim to foster a future where every voice is heard and every individual is valued. Just as Duderi stands as a symbol of ancient discovery, we stand committed to opening the doors of the future, creating pathways that lead to understanding, peace, and mutual respect for all.
OUR VALUES
Equity
Inclusion
Diversity
Equality
HOW
IT
BEGAN
DUDERI had already been launched a year earlier as a peacebuilding initiative after the Turkish invasion of Afrin and the serious violations that followed. During that critical time, Alice and Sabiha engaged with local actors and human rights organizations to address the violations and mitigate the tensions affecting civilians. It was through these efforts that the foundation of DUDERIs next chapter was laid.
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Accordingly, DUDERI decided to focus its efforts on reshaping education in Syria and fostering peacebuilding activities. By Emphasizing critical thinking, diversity, and dialogue, DUDERI aims to contribute to a democratic and inclusive future for all Syrians.
In February 2019, Alice Mufrej and Sabiha Khalil, on their way to a research event organized by Dr. Bassma Kodmani, the head of the Arab reform initiative, found themselves reflecting on a shared vision for Syria, a democratic, pluralistic society.
They decided to take a bold step, opening two metaphorical doors: An Arab door and a Kurdish door. Their goal was to break down the entrenched stereotypes and divisive narratives that authoritarianism had imposed on both communities and to pave the way for mutual understanding and cooperation.
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