The conference titled “Women’s Unity is the Foundation for Building Justice and Democracy in a Decentralized and United Syria,” organized by Kongra Star and the Zenûbya Women’s Community in Hesekê, brought together leading figures of the women’s movement in Syria.
Speaking at the conference, Rohilat Efrîn, a member of the YPJ (Women’s Defense Units) General Command, emphasized that women’s struggle for freedom has now become the resistance of the entire Syrian society.
‘Self-defense is a fundamental condition’
Rohilat Efrîn stated that the struggle of women in North and East Syria is the product of their intellect and spirit of resistance, saying, “We achieved freedom through struggle.”
Pointing out that the Syrian revolution that began in 2011 was not only a political uprising but also a social and humanitarian project, she said, “Self-defense is a fundamental condition for the continuation of society.”
‘Women’s revolution defends not only women but the entire society’
Rohilat Efrîn stated that the free will of women has transformed into the will of all Syrian women, emphasizing that the women’s revolution defends not only women but the entire society.
Referring to attacks against women in Syria’s coastal cities and Suwayda, she said, “These attacks are an attempt to break the will of women and society. Strengthening self-defense is vital.”
‘YPJ is as much an intellectual force as it is a military one’
Remarking that the YPJ is as much an intellectual force as it is a military one, Rohilat Efrîn drew attention to the ideological dimension of the YPJ, saying, “Defense is the protection of values, freedom, justice, and equality.”
‘Resistance is a condition of existence’
Referring to the attacks in Efrîn, Girê Spî, and Serêkaniyê, the YPJ Commander said that in places where there is no self-defense, society pays a heavy price.
Concluding her speech, Rohilat Efrîn said, “Resistance is not a choice, it is a condition of existence. Every attack on women is an attack on society and gives us the opportunity to show our will more strongly. The YPJ is the army of all Syrian women.”