NAGHAM JAJAN

Qamishlo- for fifteen years, the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) have waged a wide struggle in defence of women’s freedom, existence, and dignity. Despite the military and political achievements these forces have accomplished and the role they have played in confronting the terrorist organization ISIS, the Syrian interim government does not recognize them as an independent women’s military force.

In this context, the platform of Joint Activities of Women’s Movements and Organisations in Rojave announced on April 26 the launch of a solidarity campaign with the YPJ under the slogan “we are all YPJ… and YPJ represents us.” This campaign has received wide solidarity from various cities of Rojava and countries in the Middle East,North Africa, and Europe.

The YPJ has Struggled for Rights and Freedom and Has Become the Force of Women

Nashmiya abdullah from the city of Qamishlo in Rojave pointed to the pioneering role played by the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) during the Rojava Revolution, saying: “For fifteen years, the YPJ has waged an exceptional struggle for women’s rights and freedom. Through its participation in military field, it has proven that women can protect their existence and playing an influential role in various fields. The fighters and leaders of the YPJ, with their strong will, have managed to confront and defeat the terrorist organization ISIS.”

It is necessary for the world's women to support this force, as she explained, and to "continue the struggle to establish its place in the new Syrian constitution." It is also necessary to "enact laws that guarantee the protection of women, for the YPJ represents the force of all women and has contributed to breaking the prevailing patriarchal mentality."

Nashmiya Abdullah called upon all women of the world to express their solidarity with the YPJ and to take to the squares in support of them.

 

"The YPJ Will Remain Until the End"

For her part, Abla Ahmed expressed her support for the YPJ, affirming the importance of women possessing strength and self‑confidence. "We will always continue to support women. It is necessary for women from all components to be able to protect their existence with a shared will and strength. As an Arab woman, I support the YPJ because it has proven its presence in the most difficult circumstances. The YPJ will always remain because it represents all women."

 

"Women Must Have a Role in the Democratic Integration Process"

Jihan Ali affirmed the importance of preserving the existence of the YPJ constitutionally in Syria. "The force that defeated ISIS was the YPJ. It is necessary for women from different components to unite and preserve the gains they have achieved over long years of struggle."

She added: "The interim government does not accept the role of women because it fears their strength and will. Therefore, women must have a fundamental role in the democratic integration process, and the YPJ must be part of this process. It should also obtain its constitutional and legal place, because it is the body capable of guaranteeing women's existence and rights in the new Syria."

 

"The Strength of the YPJ Must Be Recognised Globally"

For her part, Susan Ahmed from the city of Afrin explained that the YPJ represents the identity and strength of women. "The YPJ should receive recognition and support worldwide. It was founded at the beginning of the Rojava Revolution with the aim of protecting women's existence, freedom, and will. We all represent the YPJ, and it is necessary for the interim government to recognise it officially."