North-East Syrian women’s umbrella organization Kongra Star organized a conference under the slogan “Let us struggle together to guarantee women’s rights in the Syrian constitution” at the Azadî Park Hall in Qamishlo, in the Cizîrê region.
Following the opening speech, presentations and discussions were held in the first session under the themes of “Politics and Law.”
In the second session, YPJ Commander Sarya Afrin spoke on defense, while PYD (Democratic Union Party) Presidential Council member Foza Yusif spoke on integration, followed by discussions. The session was moderated by Ronahi Hesen, spokesperson for the Democratic Politics Relations and Alliances Committee of Kongra Star.
Sarya Afrin evaluated the role of women in defense, commemorating women who lost their lives in the struggle for the freedom of women and society.
Sarya Afrin stated: “This revolution began under the leadership of women. Women’s forces such as the YPJ took on the responsibility of defending women’s gains. Women from all communities joined the YPJ. In our fight against ISIS, which represents the male-dominated mentality, thousands of our comrades fell as martyrs. We resisted with our identity as women to protect human values. We acted with this responsibility and tried to set an example for Kurdish women. Our struggle, carried out with the philosophy of ‘Jin, Jiyan, Azadî,’ [Woman, Life, Freedom] will continue. Now we must protect these gains.”
Referring to the recent conflict in Syria, Sarya Afrin said: “Women have waged a great struggle. We are responsible toward the mothers of martyrs and those who were forced to migrate. There are discussions on integration, and the SDF has joined this process. We are also part of the SDF and planned to participate in integration. However, the transitional government did not approach this issue positively. Efforts to be included in the process are ongoing. We know the government’s approach; it wants to include us individually and disperse us. We, on the other hand, continue our struggle. It is argued that women should not join the army. We are determined; we do not wait for anyone to grant us rights—we will gain them through struggle. Not only in our own areas, but across all of Syria, we will organize women’s defense.”
The YPJ commander continued: “We became a force defending humanity against ISIS. We will also take part in defending Syria. We have no expectations from the transitional government; we will win our rights through struggle. There can be no Syria without women. We must set an example in military, social, and political fields. Women’s solidarity in Kurdistan and around the world has given great hope to the YPJ. This increases our responsibility.”
Following her speech, participants chanted slogans: “Long live the resistance of the YPJ” and “Jin, Jiyan, Azadî.”
Speaking after, Foza Yusif stated that the country is in a state of conflict and said: “Women are the ones most affected by this fire. We live in a geography dominated by a male-centered mentality, and external forces in the region act with the same mindset. This is not unique to Syria. Every crisis starts here and then spreads to other regions. Unfortunately, there is still no understanding of resolving problems fairly. Existing systems impose pressure on women and peoples and remain open to external intervention. What has changed in 15 years? The people rose up for freedom and equality, but the revolution was exploited. Therefore, the revolution is not over—it will continue until it reaches its goals.”
Referring to the January 29 agreement, Foza Yusif said: “We are not satisfied with this agreement, but we have protected ourselves against attacks. This is an opportunity; we can reorganize and continue the struggle. Integration is a struggle to protect rights. The issues of women, democracy, and justice concern all of Syria. Topics of integration included a ceasefire, the return of displaced people, language, education, and military matters. Some have been partially implemented, while others remain problematic.”
Pointing to the meaning of integration, she added: “Integration requires the participation of both sides; if it is one-sided, it becomes imposition. The state must also transform itself. The current constitution is insufficient. Education in one’s own language is a fundamental right. Self-administration is necessary not only for Kurdish regions but for all of Syria.”
Addressing the issue of women, Foza Yusif said: “A Ministry of Women must be established. Women in this country face serious violence. Women’s rights are extremely weak. Therefore, the women’s issue is a social, economic, and political issue. One of the most important topics is the YPJ. Women cannot be left defenseless. Today, the transitional government says, ‘your mission is over, return to your homes.’ However, the threat continues. ISIS is still attacking. There is no living being in the world that lives without defense. We must defend ourselves. We will struggle for the status of the YPJ.”
Foza Yusif also emphasized that women must strengthen their organized struggle and called for equal representation of women in governance.
Following the speeches, discussions were held and proposals were presented. Participants stated that women’s institutions should gain official status and called for continued work in this regard.
The conference is expected to conclude with a final declaration.
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