Nagham Jajan

Qamishlo – Following the recent attacks on Rojava, an agreement was reached between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the interim Syrian government on July 29 regarding the terms of integration, stipulating that four brigades of the Syrian Democratic Forces would join the Syrian army, and that the Autonomous Administration institutions would begin the integration process.

However, the interim government, known for its anti‑woman policies, still refuses to officially recognize the Women's Protection Units. Despite this refusal, women in Rojava affirm that the YPJ is not just a military force, but a symbol of women's liberation and their right to defend themselves and their society.

In this context, the Joint Events Platform of Women's Movements and Organizations in Rojava launched a support campaign for the YPJ on April 26.

"In the name of religion, they reject women and target them"

Shadha Hussein, co‑chair of the Youth Council of the Democratic Union Party (PYD), said that the YPJ represents the strength of every woman. "In the ideological line presented to us by leader Öcalan, women have a central position. The interim government has not accepted women since its establishment, especially the YPJ. It is necessary for the YPJ to have a clear role in the integration process. This government, in the name of Islam, rejects women and targets them."

"All the women of Syria must be part of the integration process"

She stressed the need to establish women's position in the Syrian constitution. "We launched a campaign to support the YPJ so that women's voices reach the world. Women have proven their role throughout history, and it is their right to win their place. What has happened recently – women being thrown from buildings and their braids being cut – reveals the extent of fear of women's power."

She added: "The future Syria must be democratic and guarantee women's rights. All the women of Syria must be part of the integration process. We believe in our organization and our achievements, and we will continue our struggle until our rights are guaranteed."

"No democratic society without women"

Solin Mohammed, a member of the Young Women's Union of the Democratic Union Party (PYD), affirmed that the women of Rojava reject the exclusionary mentality. "The interim government does not reject only the YPJ; it rejects women in general. It wants to return women to the mold of domestic service, but the women of Rojava have proven their presence in all fields."

She added: "We support the campaign and stand with the YPJ. Women must obtain their legal and constitutional rights. We will show everyone that the women of Rojava are capable of playing a pivotal role. A democratic society cannot be built without women."