TRNN was recently granted a rare opportunity to visit a hidden base in northeast Syria, where we were able to speak with a commander of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ). This exclusive access provided us with a ground-level view of the women’s revolution in Rojava, as the region was preparing for war.
Rojava, also known as Syrian Kurdistan, is a predominantly Kurdish region in northern Syria. It has been a site of conflict for many years, with various groups vying for control. However, amidst the chaos and violence, a unique movement has emerged – a women’s revolution.
The YPJ is an all-female military force that was formed in 2012 as a branch of the People’s Protection Units (YPG). They have been at the forefront of the fight against the Islamic State (IS) and have gained international recognition for their bravery and determination. But their role goes beyond just fighting on the frontlines – they are also actively involved in building a new society based on principles of gender equality, democracy, and self-governance.
Our visit to the YPJ base was a truly eye-opening experience. As we arrived, we were greeted by a group of fierce-looking women, all dressed in military fatigues and armed with rifles. But as we got to know them, we realized that they were not just soldiers, but also mothers, sisters, and daughters. They were fighting not only for their own freedom but for the freedom of all women in Rojava.
We were fortunate enough to sit down with Commander Leyla, who has been with the YPJ since its inception. She shared with us the challenges and triumphs of being a female fighter in a male-dominated society. She spoke of the discrimination and oppression that Kurdish women have faced for decades and how the YPJ is breaking those barriers.
“We are not just fighting against IS, but also against the patriarchal mindset that has oppressed us for so long,” Commander Leyla said. “We want to show the world that women are capable of defending themselves and their communities.”
The YPJ is not just a military force; it is also a social and political movement. They have established women’s councils in every village and town, where women can voice their opinions and participate in decision-making processes. They have also implemented a quota system, ensuring that at least 40% of all leadership positions are held by women.
But their fight for gender equality goes beyond their own community. The YPJ has been actively involved in providing aid and support to women from other ethnic and religious backgrounds who have been affected by the conflict. They have set up women’s shelters and education programs, empowering women to become self-sufficient and independent.
As we toured the base, we were struck by the sense of camaraderie and sisterhood among the YPJ fighters. They live, train, and fight together, forming strong bonds that go beyond just being comrades. They have created a safe space where women can support and uplift each other, something that is rare in a society where women are often pitted against each other.
But their fight has not been without challenges. The YPJ has faced criticism and backlash from conservative groups who see their role as a threat to traditional gender roles. They have also been targeted by IS, who view women as inferior and have carried out brutal attacks on YPJ fighters.
Despite these challenges, the YPJ remains resilient and determined to continue their fight for a better future. “We are not just fighting for ourselves, but for all women who have been oppressed and silenced,” Commander Leyla said. “We want to create a society where women have equal rights and opportunities.”
As we left the YPJ base, we were filled with a sense of admiration and hope. The women of Rojava are not just fighting a war; they are fighting for a new way of life, one that values and empowers women. Their courage and determination serve as an inspiration to women all over the world, showing that change is possible, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
The YPJ commander’s words still resonate with us – “We are not just fighting a war; we are building a revolution.” And with each step they take towards gender equality, the women of Rojava are proving that this revolution is indeed possible.
