Raqqa Canton Women: Leader's call is strategic step towards fair peace with women's participation

Leader Abdullah Ocalan's new appeal, made in a video tape last Wednesday (July 9), the first in 27 years of absolute isolation imposed upon him, has also resonated extensively, particularly from women's ranks, who regarded it as a momentous occasion to reiterate the woman's role in establishing the beginnings of peace and building a democratic state based on equality and justice.

In this sense, Fatima Ibrahim, a manager of the Zenobia Women's Gathering, said, "Leader Abdullah Ocalan's call is a profound strategic milestone. It does not mean surrendering the struggle, but transforming it into a comprehensive political aspect that opens the way for a radical and lasting solution. It is a reflection of an adult experience in the struggle and a peace founded upon free will and mutual recognition, not subjection and surrender."

Fatima added that the actualization of the concept of "peace and democratic society" is an actual rescue mission for people in the midst of worsening crises in the region and affirming the institution of a pluralistic, equitable society with active engagement.

A democratic law protecting women's rights

In her turn, Farida Abdul Rahman, an organizer in the reconciliation committee of Zenobia Women's Gathering Council, Raqqa canton, explained that, "Leader Abdullah Ocalan emphasized in his message the need to construct a democratic law all-encompassing in its nature that protects democratic politics and guarantees women's rights, since they are the group which has tasted the bitterness of patriarchal laws."

Farida Abdel Rahman emphasized the fact that participation by women in the preparation of this law is an inevitable requirement. It must be formulated based on gender equality and amplify the role of women as leaders in institutions.

Women's Role in Leading the Transformation

Ahlam Adnan, an official member of the training committee of the Zenobia Women's Gathering Council, maintained that women need to take the central role of leading this historic shift. "Women can be the driving force behind building a democratic society by strengthening their institutions, expanding their participation in communes and councils, and adopting approaches to education and civil resistance. Supporting women must not be limited to theoretical aspects, but must encompass politics, society, and culture."

ANHA