Role of women in NE, Syria: From exclusion to empowerment- Arin Sweid

In the 21st century, Syrian women have undergone profound transformations shaped by political, social, and economic factors. The prolonged conflicts and economic crises have subjected them to severe hardships, exacerbating their suffering and restricting their ability to play an active role in society. However, despite these challenges, many women have managed to break societal barriers and emerge as influential figures in various spheres, including politics, economy, and social activism.

 Women’s Leadership in the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria

 Since the establishment of the Autonomous Administration in 2014, women in North and East Syria have assumed pioneering roles across multiple sectors. Women have secured key positions in local councils and administrative bodies, playing a decisive role in governance and decision-making.

Furthermore, they have contributed significantly to education, economic development, and security, particularly through the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), which play a crucial role in maintaining stability and safeguarding communities.

 These developments underscore the potential of women to lead and effect change when provided with the necessary opportunities. A distinctive feature of governance in North and East Syria is the adoption of the co-chairing system, wherein men and women share leadership responsibilities equally. This model, which is arguably unparalleled globally, institutionalizes gender equality and ensures that women have an equitable role in decision-making processes.

 Family Law: A Landmark Achievement for Women’s Rights

 One of the most significant legal advancements for women under the Autonomous Administration has been the enactment of progressive family laws. These laws not only establish gender equality but also go further by prohibiting polygamy and forced marriages while ensuring women's rights in custody and inheritance. Such measures have strengthened women’s positions within society and offered legal protections against domestic violence.

 Nevertheless, awareness of these legal rights remains limited due to cultural and educational barriers, as well as entrenched societal norms that continue to impede women's access to their full rights. There is an urgent need for comprehensive awareness campaigns—not only to educate women about these laws but also to empower them to utilize these legal frameworks as tools for justice and protection in their daily lives.

 The Ideological Influence of leader Abdullah Ocalan on Women’s Rights

 Any discussion of women’s rights in North and East Syria would be incomplete without acknowledging the ideological influence of leader Ocalan, who has been held in solitary confinement in Imrali Prison since 1999. Despite his imprisonment, leader’s philosophy remains a guiding force in the struggle for women’s liberation, emphasizing that true societal freedom cannot be achieved without women's emancipation.

 Leader Ocalan’s vision is encapsulated in his statements:

 " No freedom in a society if women are oppressed."

 "The liberation of women is the foundation of a democratic and free society."

 "Women are not merely half of society; they are the force that gives it life and renewal."

 This ideological framework has transformed women from passive recipients of rights into active agents of change, shaping a more just and equitable society where they reclaim their rightful place as leaders and innovators.

 Empowering Women Through Education and Economic Initiatives

 Women leaders in North and East Syria have played a vital role in fostering awareness and education by establishing training centers, organizing workshops on women’s rights, and encouraging female participation in public life. Numerous grassroots initiatives have also been launched to support women economically through small-scale projects, helping improve their living conditions and financial independence.

 Despite the challenges Syrian women have faced, they have demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination, particularly in North and East Syria, where they have been afforded greater opportunities for participation. However, achieving full gender equality remains an ongoing struggle that requires continued efforts in education, legal reform, and social advocacy to solidify women’s role as equal partners in shaping the future.

 Future Challenges and the Rise of Extremist Threats

 In light of recent political developments—particularly the rise to power of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in Damascus—there is growing concern over the future of Syrian women. Given the extremist ideology of HTS, which fundamentally opposes women's rights and their participation in public life, these fears are well-founded.

 At this critical juncture in Syria’s history, it is imperative to intensify the feminist struggle and safeguard the hard-won gains achieved by women in North and East Syria. The principles established by the Autonomous Administration must not be compromised or reversed under the weight of extremist ideology. The long and arduous fight for women’s rights cannot be abandoned. Instead, efforts must be redoubled, and collective resistance must be strengthened to confront the impending challenges.

 Women must remain at the heart of any democratic project, serving as the cornerstone of a just and inclusive society. Only through unwavering commitment to gender equality can a truly democratic and liberated Syria be realized.

a.k

ANHA