Nagham Jajan

Qamishlo _ Despite the escalating crises and difficulties witnessed in Rojava, the “House of Women” has not abandoned its role; rather, it has continued to follow up on women’s issues and defend their rights.

The first House of Women in Rojava was established in the city of Qamishlo on March 20, 2011, at the beginning of women’s organization within the framework of the revolution and civil society in Rojava. The house started with only three women, later expanding into dozens of centers in various areas of northern and eastern Syria,with the aim of resolving women’s  their rights, and providing social and legal support to them.

It later became one of the most prominent women's institutions in Rojava and contributed to the development of community work and the organization of women during the years of the revolution.

"Addressing women's suffering"

Ilham Omar, a member of the administration of the House of Women, says: "If a person has a solid foundation, they will succeed in any work they do. Since 1987, I have been working in struggle activities for women's rights. In 2011, the first House of Women was opened in Qamishlo, then other houses were opened in many areas of Syria."

She pointed out that they faced great difficulties until society accepted the idea of the House of Women. "Our goal in establishing the House of Women was to solve the problems of all women living in Syria, and to respond to their suffering. In society, it was not acceptable for a woman to solve family or community problems, so our struggle was based on the principle of equality and democracy until we were able to make society accept the House of Women."

She noted that many men have also come to trust the House of Women and turn to it to solve their problems. "Our goal is to build a democratic society based on equality. Due to the state of stability in our areas, many people fleeing areas that were attacked came to us, and the House of Women worked to solve their problems."

She affirmed that women, alongside carrying arms during the revolution, also led community work. "Women come to the House of Women to present all their problems in order to solve them through peaceful means. Women have proven themselves in all fields and left their mark on the revolution. We even opened a House of Women institution in the Syrian capital, Damascus. Our message to all women is that they should attain their freedom and rights and prove their existence."

"The House of Women will not integrate"

For her part, Mabrouka Ibrahim explained that she joined the activities of the House of Women in 2016, and said that as a woman she will not accept the mentality of the interim government. "The House of Women will not integrate. Our work will continue. The interim government does not recognize women, and we do not accept its mentality either. Women will always exist, and no one can cancel their will or existence."