Since the start of the war of aggression on January 6, women and their institutions have been systematically attacked by the Syrian interim government and the Turkish state. While the strategy of attack has changed, with the signing of an integration agreement between the interim government and the Autonomous Administration in North and East Syria, the mentality of the negotiating partners remains the same – Islamist and misogynistic. Society, and especially women, continue to defend the achievements of the revolution. Women’s rights, women’s political and social participation, societal diversity, and the right to self-defense, including the integration of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) into the Syrian army, are rejected by the interim government.

The YPJ is known worldwide for its courage and determination in liberating the territories occupied by ISIS and in resisting the invasion by the Turkish army and its jihadist groups. They defend themselves not only against physical attacks, but also against the mental attacks of a patriarchal state power. Through education, self-organization, and an awareness of their own strength and women’s rights, they develop the strongest self-defense capabilities. The YPJ proves that women everywhere have the ability and the right to defend themselves collectively and thus protect their country, their people, and their society.

Today, the YPJ declared its commitment to securing the future of a democratic and free Syria and the defense of women. The response from Rojava’s women’s organizations, including Kongra Star, is the call to action of the solidarity campaign “We are all YPJ.”

Full-length call to join the campaign: “We are all YPJ! – Self-defence is our natural right.”

More Information can be found on the Women Defend Rojava website