A broad dialogue forum titled “Syrian Women Unite for Freedom, Justice, and Equality” was held today under the auspices of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ). The forum witnessed wide participation from representatives of the Women’s Protection Units, Internal Security Forces, families of martyrs, and representatives of the Autonomous Administration’s institutions.
The forum commenced with a minute of silence in honor of the martyrs’ sacrifices, followed by an opening speech delivered by Roken Ahmed, Co-Chair of the Autonomous Administration in the Euphrates Canton in Kobani.
A Central Issue and a Strategic Transformation
In her speech, Roken Ahmed explained that the primary objective of the forum was to unify the voice of Syrian women under a common platform, emphasizing that the issue of Syrian women is not a secondary matter but a fundamental pillar of any national project or future political solution.
She stated: “The title of this forum carries a clear message: unity is the source of our strength in confronting challenges.”
Ahmed also highlighted the significant transformation experienced by Syrian women throughout the years of crisis, noting that, through their determination, they have moved from being recipients of decisions to becoming decision-makers. She described the current period as “a stage of breaking the barriers of fear and outdated traditions.”
The Future of the Women’s Protection Units and Upcoming Challenges
For her part, Delbrin Kobani, a commander in the Women’s Protection Units, delivered a speech addressing strategic issues related to the future of the Units, particularly discussions concerning the integration of the Women’s Protection Units into the Syrian Army and the pivotal role they could play in the coming period.
Delbrin Kobani also reviewed the potential challenges and difficulties that the region may face if an acceptable framework for such integration is not reached.
Recognition of a Leading Role and Emphasis on Unity
The forum also featured a number of interventions and discussions by participants, who stressed the strategic importance of recognizing the Women’s Protection Units and incorporating them into the defense system. They recalled the Units’ historic and pioneering role over the past years in protecting and defending the region, particularly during battles against ISIS.
The forum concluded with a final statement in which participants emphasized the necessity of integrating the Women’s Protection Units into state institutions and granting them official recognition, while also calling for the unification of Syrian women’s efforts and the continuation of joint and sustainable work to achieve the values of freedom, justice, and equality.
