YPJ Fighter: Women redefine power in Rojava

Amid the ongoing challenges facing Rojava, female fighters of the Women’s Protection Units continue their role in defending the region and protecting its achievements. In this context, fighter Shamal Lizgin spoke about the reasons behind her joining the YPJ and the experiences she went through during years of struggle, stressing that the sacrifices of female fighters have contributed to significant changes in the reality and status of women in society.

The attacks on Rojava and the martyrdom of her friends were key motivations

Lizgin, originally from Kobani, joined the YPJ in 2021. She explained that “the attacks on Rojava from various sides were among the main reasons that pushed me to join the ranks of the units.”

She added to our agency: “I was deeply affected by the battles in Kobani during its liberation by the YPJ and the Women’s Protection Units from ISIS mercenaries, as well as what happened in Afrin and Serekaniye, which increased my desire to join the resistance.”

She also noted that the death of several of her friends, especially her brother, was a decisive factor in her decision to join, saying: “We draw strength from their sacrifices that pushes us to continue their path.”

“Freedom is broader than traditional concepts”

The fighter spoke about women’s situation before joining the YPJ, explaining that society imposed restrictions, customs, and traditions that limited women’s freedom and decision-making.

She said: “We used to think freedom meant going to school, returning home, doing housework, and visiting friends. But after joining, I realized that freedom is much broader and deeper than this concept.”

She added that joining the units gave her a wider understanding of society and the influence of state authority, as well as issues related to women’s rights and violations against them.

Shahba battles were the beginning

On her first combat experience, she said her first battle was during the attacks on the Shahba region in early December 2024.

She said: “My focus was on how to repel the attackers and achieve victory, while also protecting our comrades from targeting.” She added that victories in battles gave fighters more strength and determination, as they put an end to attacks on the region.

Difficult battles and deep human impact

The fighter also pointed out that many battles left deep psychological impacts on fighters, recalling the attacks on Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh neighborhoods.

She said civilians during those attacks were subjected to violations and torture, and many families were forced to bury their martyrs under olive trees, adding: “Those scenes were deeply painful for us.”

She stressed that the progress of women in Rojava is the result of sacrifices made by the Women’s Protection Units over years, noting that these sacrifices helped highlight the role of women globally and strengthen their participation in various fields. She also emphasized that community and family support played a key role in achieving these gains.

On the stance of the transitional government, she stated that the YPJ has proven its place globally through its role in protecting cities and regions, stressing that refusal to recognize it does not negate its sacrifices. She also rejected calls to transform YPJ fighters into internal security forces, arguing that they chose from the beginning to fight on the frontlines and bear risks in defense of their people, affirming that Syrian women today are redefining the equation of power.

Lizgin concluded by stressing that lack of recognition of the Women’s Protection Units will not affect their determination or push them to retreat from their path.

ANHA