With this attack, the Turkish state showed that it aimed to prevent the fight against ISIS in 2017.”
The population was in deep mourning. Nevertheless, the People’s Defense Units (YPG), the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), as well as institutions and the population, continued their work with even greater determination.
Guided by the idea of a life in peace, the strongest strength can be mobilized.
Day of Liberation of Italy from Nazi Fascism
Many people today, on April 25, commemorated not only the fallen of Qaraçox, but also the fallen Partisans in Italy.
In September 1943, young Italian fighters organized in Nazi-occupied Italy — known as the Partigiani — and carried out the struggle against the Nazi German regime and the Italian fascist regime.
What initially began as individual resistance developed into a mass movement. Among them, more than 70,000 women took responsibility for defending their people and their country. They not only sacrificed their lives in armed struggle but also educated themselves and society in the spirit of freedom.
Of all these women, only 40 received recognition for their contribution and sacrifice.
Today, we commemorate this day as a day of the şehids (martyrs), because it was through their sacrifice and dreams that the resistance of the communal society achieved victory – even if only for a short time.
In her diary, Ada Gobetti writes:
“I felt that another battle was beginning: longer, more difficult, more exhausting. It was no longer just about fighting arrogance, cruelty, and violence – things that are easy to recognize and hate – but also about fighting within ourselves and among us: not only to destroy, but to clarify, affirm, and build. This new reality is exactly what we all – men and women – want to create for tomorrow. But will we succeed?”
WDR Campaign
In the first week of the WDR campaign, the women’s institution Kongra Star and the commune system in North and East Syria were introduced.
A central principle of the ideology of women’s liberation is organization. It connects the individual and the community and is considered essential for overcoming oppression. On this basis, Kongra Star was founded in 2005 to organize, empower, and mobilize women in Rojava. The organization played an important role in the Kurdish women’s revolution from 2012 onward and continues to support the self-organization of women from different communities.
Within Kongra Star’s umbrella organization, women work in various committees covering all areas of life, including health, justice, art and culture, ecology, economy, press, social affairs, diplomacy, finance, and education.
A core element of the political system in North and East Syria is the grassroots democratic commune and council system, in which people collectively decide on their living conditions. Women additionally organize in separate structures to strengthen their rights and participation. An important principle is the co-chair system, in which leadership positions are always shared by one woman and one man.
The work of the communes covers many areas of life such as education, economy, health, and self-defense. This system is continuously evolving and presents itself as an alternative to the nation-state model, focusing on social participation and collective responsibility.
However, this structure is currently under serious threat: in areas controlled by the Syrian transitional government, many women’s organizations and communal structures have been dissolved or destroyed. In Kurdish-majority regions, they continue to exist but remain under pressure and struggle for recognition.
The population was in deep mourning. Nevertheless, the People’s Defense Units (YPG), the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), as well as institutions and the population, continued their work with even greater determination.
Guided by the idea of a life in peace, the strongest strength can be mobilized.
Day of Liberation of Italy from Nazi Fascism
Many people today, on April 25, commemorated not only the fallen of Qaraçox, but also the fallen Partisans in Italy.
In September 1943, young Italian fighters organized in Nazi-occupied Italy — known as the Partigiani — and carried out the struggle against the Nazi German regime and the Italian fascist regime.
What initially began as individual resistance developed into a mass movement. Among them, more than 70,000 women took responsibility for defending their people and their country. They not only sacrificed their lives in armed struggle but also educated themselves and society in the spirit of freedom.
Of all these women, only 40 received recognition for their contribution and sacrifice.
Today, we commemorate this day as a day of the şehids (martyrs), because it was through their sacrifice and dreams that the resistance of the communal society achieved victory – even if only for a short time.
In her diary, Ada Gobetti writes:
“I felt that another battle was beginning: longer, more difficult, more exhausting. It was no longer just about fighting arrogance, cruelty, and violence – things that are easy to recognize and hate – but also about fighting within ourselves and among us: not only to destroy, but to clarify, affirm, and build. This new reality is exactly what we all – men and women – want to create for tomorrow. But will we succeed?”
WDR Campaign
In the first week of the WDR campaign, the women’s institution Kongra Star and the commune system in North and East Syria were introduced.
A central principle of the ideology of women’s liberation is organization. It connects the individual and the community and is considered essential for overcoming oppression. On this basis, Kongra Star was founded in 2005 to organize, empower, and mobilize women in Rojava. The organization played an important role in the Kurdish women’s revolution from 2012 onward and continues to support the self-organization of women from different communities.
Within Kongra Star’s umbrella organization, women work in various committees covering all areas of life, including health, justice, art and culture, ecology, economy, press, social affairs, diplomacy, finance, and education.
A core element of the political system in North and East Syria is the grassroots democratic commune and council system, in which people collectively decide on their living conditions. Women additionally organize in separate structures to strengthen their rights and participation. An important principle is the co-chair system, in which leadership positions are always shared by one woman and one man.
The work of the communes covers many areas of life such as education, economy, health, and self-defense. This system is continuously evolving and presents itself as an alternative to the nation-state model, focusing on social participation and collective responsibility.
However, this structure is currently under serious threat: in areas controlled by the Syrian transitional government, many women’s organizations and communal structures have been dissolved or destroyed. In Kurdish-majority regions, they continue to exist but remain under pressure and struggle for recognition.
Dear friends,
we are reaching out with the latest news from Rojava, the heart of the women’s revolution.
Rojava is a region in northern and eastern Syria. Many different communities live here together, including Arabs, Kurds, Assyrians, Armenians, Yazidis, and many others.
For 15 years, society here has been building its own self-administered system based on the values of women. Organized in communes, councils, and women’s institutions, society is becoming the strongest force. The people here are convinced that society can only live in freedom and democracy if women are no longer oppressed but are able to live out their free will.
Letter of solidarity to the YPJ
On April 26, the campaign “We are all YPJ” was launched by Kongra Star, the umbrella organization of women’s groups in Rojava.
Women from the Middle East are coming together and expressing their solidarity. They emphasize that the YPJ must be integrated as a unit into the Syrian army. For many women, the YPJ represents protection, the preservation of women’s rights, and the recognition of women in all areas of life. If the work of the YPJ is banned, it will mean that there can be no democracy in Syria.
At the Jineology Academy, women from Egypt, Lebanon, Sudan, and Yemen presented a letter of solidarity to the women of the YPJ.
The YPJ commander, Rohlat Afrin, thanked them for the initiative and emphasized that support from the population is an important source of trust and recognition.
The fact that the organization of women is not accepted shows that the transitional government and its patriarchal mentality are aware:
“The organization of women is the strongest form of self-defense.” This is why they seek to suppress it.
Genocide against the Armenians
On Sunday, many people took part in a commemoration event marking the genocide against the Armenians in the city of Heseke.
Images of those who were killed hang on the walls, keeping their memory and stories alive. They are honored with a moment of silence, and candles are lit during a collective song.
On the orders of the Ottoman Minister of the Interior, Talât Bey, the arrest of hundreds of Armenians belonging to the Armenian elite began in Istanbul on April 24, 1915. This marked the beginning of the exclusion and persecution of the Armenian population, which within a few months developed into a war of extermination throughout the Ottoman Empire.
While the first victims were interned in concentration camps, the so-called Deportation Law followed on May 27, declaring Armenians de facto spies of the Entente and legitimizing their deportation.
The events of April 24, 1915, marked the beginning of the genocide against the Armenians of the Ottoman Empire. The genocide, known by Armenians as “Aghet” (catastrophe), claimed 1.5 million lives.
Participants in the event are fighting for the recognition of the Armenian language and identity.
“Our people were subjected to a brutal genocide. We will not forget these days and will continue to fight until our rights are secured.”
Another participant highlighted the connection to the current political, social, and humanitarian situation in Syria.
Arif Kasabiyan, co-chair of the Armenian Social Council, stated: “The genocide of 1915 is repeating itself today in Syria.” To prevent further crimes, it is necessary to organize and resist together. “Unity is the key to thwarting plans aimed at our annihilation,” he said.
European Court challenges Turkey’s withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention
Women organizing in Istanbul point to violations of fundamental legal principles.
The Council of Europe agreement from 2011 aims to combat violence against women and domestic violence through binding legal standards. Turkey was the first country to sign the convention, but now intends to withdraw from it as of July 1.
In 2021, Turkey withdrew from the convention by presidential decree—that is, through a single signature by Erdoğan and without parliamentary approval.
we are reaching out with the latest news from Rojava, the heart of the women’s revolution.
Rojava is a region in northern and eastern Syria. Many different communities live here together, including Arabs, Kurds, Assyrians, Armenians, Yazidis, and many others.
For 15 years, society here has been building its own self-administered system based on the values of women. Organized in communes, councils, and women’s institutions, society is becoming the strongest force. The people here are convinced that society can only live in freedom and democracy if women are no longer oppressed but are able to live out their free will.
Letter of solidarity to the YPJ
On April 26, the campaign “We are all YPJ” was launched by Kongra Star, the umbrella organization of women’s groups in Rojava.
Women from the Middle East are coming together and expressing their solidarity. They emphasize that the YPJ must be integrated as a unit into the Syrian army. For many women, the YPJ represents protection, the preservation of women’s rights, and the recognition of women in all areas of life. If the work of the YPJ is banned, it will mean that there can be no democracy in Syria.
At the Jineology Academy, women from Egypt, Lebanon, Sudan, and Yemen presented a letter of solidarity to the women of the YPJ.
The YPJ commander, Rohlat Afrin, thanked them for the initiative and emphasized that support from the population is an important source of trust and recognition.
The fact that the organization of women is not accepted shows that the transitional government and its patriarchal mentality are aware:
“The organization of women is the strongest form of self-defense.” This is why they seek to suppress it.
Genocide against the Armenians
On Sunday, many people took part in a commemoration event marking the genocide against the Armenians in the city of Heseke.
Images of those who were killed hang on the walls, keeping their memory and stories alive. They are honored with a moment of silence, and candles are lit during a collective song.
On the orders of the Ottoman Minister of the Interior, Talât Bey, the arrest of hundreds of Armenians belonging to the Armenian elite began in Istanbul on April 24, 1915. This marked the beginning of the exclusion and persecution of the Armenian population, which within a few months developed into a war of extermination throughout the Ottoman Empire.
While the first victims were interned in concentration camps, the so-called Deportation Law followed on May 27, declaring Armenians de facto spies of the Entente and legitimizing their deportation.
The events of April 24, 1915, marked the beginning of the genocide against the Armenians of the Ottoman Empire. The genocide, known by Armenians as “Aghet” (catastrophe), claimed 1.5 million lives.
Participants in the event are fighting for the recognition of the Armenian language and identity.
“Our people were subjected to a brutal genocide. We will not forget these days and will continue to fight until our rights are secured.”
Another participant highlighted the connection to the current political, social, and humanitarian situation in Syria.
Arif Kasabiyan, co-chair of the Armenian Social Council, stated: “The genocide of 1915 is repeating itself today in Syria.” To prevent further crimes, it is necessary to organize and resist together. “Unity is the key to thwarting plans aimed at our annihilation,” he said.
European Court challenges Turkey’s withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention
Women organizing in Istanbul point to violations of fundamental legal principles.
The Council of Europe agreement from 2011 aims to combat violence against women and domestic violence through binding legal standards. Turkey was the first country to sign the convention, but now intends to withdraw from it as of July 1.
In 2021, Turkey withdrew from the convention by presidential decree—that is, through a single signature by Erdoğan and without parliamentary approval.
The justification from the presidential office claims that the agreement is being used by a group of people to “normalize homosexuality.”
Lawyer Esin Yeşilırmak, representing the platform, sees multiple legal violations in this process, including the right to an effective remedy, the prohibition of discrimination, and the right to a fair trial. “Our complaint is also based on the principle of a democratic society and the legal certainty that has been undermined by this decision,” she said.
She added that the withdrawal by a single signature renders “the decision to terminate the Istanbul Convention invalid.”
The complaint to the European Court follows a ruling by Turkey’s Constitutional Court, which rejected several appeals against the withdrawal.
Case of Rojwelat Kızmaz
The importance of a lawful investigation of femicides for the protection of women must be self-evident. The Turkish state assumes no responsibility, often downplays the circumstances, or denies them altogether.
We see this pattern as well in the femicide of our friend Rojwelat Kızmaz.
She was found dead in 2024, yet to this day there have been no proper legal steps to clarify the causes and circumstances. The family is demanding new investigations, as the previous ones were concluded quickly and classified as suicide.
There is a lack of information and evidence to support such a conclusion. A similar approach was taken by the authorities in the case of Gülistan Doku, which remains unresolved to this day.
It is important not to accept misogynistic investigative practices and to work together to protect the dignity of all people.
Call for unity and strengthening the role of women
At a dialogue seminar organized by the Conference for Democratic Islam in Derik, the importance of social cohesion and solidarity in integrating women and men was emphasized.
The unity and strengthening of women’s role in this integration process were highlighted.
The event took place under the motto “Together for a united democratic society.” Many figures from politics and society, as well as representatives of civil society organizations, participated.
A moment of silence was held in memory of those who lost their lives for a democratic future.
Sinan Sidosh, head of the Ahl al-Beit Association of Democratic Islam, emphasized:
“It is necessary to distinguish between democratic Islam, which recognizes human rights as the right of every citizen and protects the dignity of the people, and authoritarian Islam, which deprives people of their rights and dignity for self-interest.”
He added:
“Through democratic Islam, we must build a foundation of compassion, justice, and solidarity, combat self-interest-driven authoritarianism, strengthen social cohesion, and demonstrate that democracy is the path to preserving the achievements of the people.”
Avin Hajji, co-chair of the Conference for Democratic Islam, stated:
“Women have suffered greatly under authoritarian society through the deprivation of their rights and the erasure of their identity and personality. The current transitional government continues on this path by denying women representation in state-building.”
She continued:
“Women have struggled to shape Syrian civilization and have contributed to the formation of society. Now we live in a state of contradiction, as the transitional government continues to suppress women’s freedoms and deprive them of their rights.”
The Democratic Islam Congress in North and East Syria advocates for a form of religion opposed to power, war, and oppression.
With this, we send revolutionary greetings from Rojava.
Lawyer Esin Yeşilırmak, representing the platform, sees multiple legal violations in this process, including the right to an effective remedy, the prohibition of discrimination, and the right to a fair trial. “Our complaint is also based on the principle of a democratic society and the legal certainty that has been undermined by this decision,” she said.
She added that the withdrawal by a single signature renders “the decision to terminate the Istanbul Convention invalid.”
The complaint to the European Court follows a ruling by Turkey’s Constitutional Court, which rejected several appeals against the withdrawal.
Case of Rojwelat Kızmaz
The importance of a lawful investigation of femicides for the protection of women must be self-evident. The Turkish state assumes no responsibility, often downplays the circumstances, or denies them altogether.
We see this pattern as well in the femicide of our friend Rojwelat Kızmaz.
She was found dead in 2024, yet to this day there have been no proper legal steps to clarify the causes and circumstances. The family is demanding new investigations, as the previous ones were concluded quickly and classified as suicide.
There is a lack of information and evidence to support such a conclusion. A similar approach was taken by the authorities in the case of Gülistan Doku, which remains unresolved to this day.
It is important not to accept misogynistic investigative practices and to work together to protect the dignity of all people.
Call for unity and strengthening the role of women
At a dialogue seminar organized by the Conference for Democratic Islam in Derik, the importance of social cohesion and solidarity in integrating women and men was emphasized.
The unity and strengthening of women’s role in this integration process were highlighted.
The event took place under the motto “Together for a united democratic society.” Many figures from politics and society, as well as representatives of civil society organizations, participated.
A moment of silence was held in memory of those who lost their lives for a democratic future.
Sinan Sidosh, head of the Ahl al-Beit Association of Democratic Islam, emphasized:
“It is necessary to distinguish between democratic Islam, which recognizes human rights as the right of every citizen and protects the dignity of the people, and authoritarian Islam, which deprives people of their rights and dignity for self-interest.”
He added:
“Through democratic Islam, we must build a foundation of compassion, justice, and solidarity, combat self-interest-driven authoritarianism, strengthen social cohesion, and demonstrate that democracy is the path to preserving the achievements of the people.”
Avin Hajji, co-chair of the Conference for Democratic Islam, stated:
“Women have suffered greatly under authoritarian society through the deprivation of their rights and the erasure of their identity and personality. The current transitional government continues on this path by denying women representation in state-building.”
She continued:
“Women have struggled to shape Syrian civilization and have contributed to the formation of society. Now we live in a state of contradiction, as the transitional government continues to suppress women’s freedoms and deprive them of their rights.”
The Democratic Islam Congress in North and East Syria advocates for a form of religion opposed to power, war, and oppression.
With this, we send revolutionary greetings from Rojava.
Dear friends,
We are writing to you from Rojava, the heart of the women’s revolution.
Rojava is located in North and East Syria. Since 2013, people here have been living a revolution and organizing themselves in communes, councils, and women’s structures. They are building a social model based on democratic confederalism.
The concept of democratic confederalism was developed by Abdullah Öcalan, the leader of the Kurdish freedom movement. It describes a grassroots democratic system of administration that is not controlled by the state, but instead builds democracy from within society itself. A central pillar of this social model is the self-determination and liberation of women.
May 1st
Many people take to the streets on May 1st, International Workers’ Day. To build a united force, we must look to history in order to understand the legacy on which our struggle is built, where we stand, and who we are.
To do so, we also need a solid analysis of the political situation as well as patriarchal and capitalist power structures. When we look at the history of May 1st, we see a struggle that began as early as 1886 and continues an even older social tradition.
The traditions of the workers’ movement and socialism find a living expression today in the women’s revolution in Rojava. On the occasion of May 1st, we aim to connect these struggles worldwide and build a bridge between them.
The Initiative for the National Unity of Kurdish Women in Europe published a statement on this occasion addressing the situation of Kurdish women. They linked May 1st to the struggle for freedom and identity.
They emphasized that the lived reality of Kurdish women cannot be reduced to poverty, unemployment, and insecurity, but must be understood in the context of structural oppression and political violence. In addition to economic exploitation, this also includes ethnic discrimination, militarization, displacement, language bans, and inequality in education. This results in a double burden rooted both in the patriarchal-capitalist system and in the assimilation policies of nation-states:
“The struggle for work is, for Kurdish women, also a struggle for identity, freedom, equality, and a life in dignity.”
Referring to the Kurdish women’s movement, they further stated:
“Together with Jin, Jiyan, Azadî, it is time to strengthen solidarity for freedom and justice. Bijî Yek Gulanê!”
Recognition of the mother tongue
On Thursday, thousands of people gathered in the streets of Qamishlo and demonstrated for the recognition of the Kurdish language in the Syrian constitution, as well as in institutions and the education system.
Many women, and especially children, held up signs reading slogans such as “Our language is our existence and identity” and “Our language is our right.” During the march, people chanted in unity: “No life without language.”
Defending one’s own language means defending one’s identity and culture.
Culture is created by people and emerges wherever people come together. Throughout history, culture has been strongly transmitted through language: people gathered, told stories, and passed on valuable knowledge about society, nature, and ways of living together.
Semêra Hecelî, co-chair of the Education Authority of the Self-Administration, referred to the history of the Kurdish language struggle and those who lost their lives in it:
“Our martyrs wrote the letters of the Kurdish language with their blood.”
Regarding the current state of the integration agreement, she stated:
“We will continue to work to ensure that our language is anchored in the constitution. We will not accept less than two hours of instruction per week.”
Theatre rehearsal in Hesekê
The importance of self-defense and art became especially clear during our visit to Hesekê at the Community Center for Art and Culture. There, a group of young women are rehearsing a play under the direction of their teacher, Fatma. The play will be performed as part of the “WeAreAllYPJ” campaign.
It tells the stories of fighters from the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ).
We are writing to you from Rojava, the heart of the women’s revolution.
Rojava is located in North and East Syria. Since 2013, people here have been living a revolution and organizing themselves in communes, councils, and women’s structures. They are building a social model based on democratic confederalism.
The concept of democratic confederalism was developed by Abdullah Öcalan, the leader of the Kurdish freedom movement. It describes a grassroots democratic system of administration that is not controlled by the state, but instead builds democracy from within society itself. A central pillar of this social model is the self-determination and liberation of women.
May 1st
Many people take to the streets on May 1st, International Workers’ Day. To build a united force, we must look to history in order to understand the legacy on which our struggle is built, where we stand, and who we are.
To do so, we also need a solid analysis of the political situation as well as patriarchal and capitalist power structures. When we look at the history of May 1st, we see a struggle that began as early as 1886 and continues an even older social tradition.
The traditions of the workers’ movement and socialism find a living expression today in the women’s revolution in Rojava. On the occasion of May 1st, we aim to connect these struggles worldwide and build a bridge between them.
The Initiative for the National Unity of Kurdish Women in Europe published a statement on this occasion addressing the situation of Kurdish women. They linked May 1st to the struggle for freedom and identity.
They emphasized that the lived reality of Kurdish women cannot be reduced to poverty, unemployment, and insecurity, but must be understood in the context of structural oppression and political violence. In addition to economic exploitation, this also includes ethnic discrimination, militarization, displacement, language bans, and inequality in education. This results in a double burden rooted both in the patriarchal-capitalist system and in the assimilation policies of nation-states:
“The struggle for work is, for Kurdish women, also a struggle for identity, freedom, equality, and a life in dignity.”
Referring to the Kurdish women’s movement, they further stated:
“Together with Jin, Jiyan, Azadî, it is time to strengthen solidarity for freedom and justice. Bijî Yek Gulanê!”
Recognition of the mother tongue
On Thursday, thousands of people gathered in the streets of Qamishlo and demonstrated for the recognition of the Kurdish language in the Syrian constitution, as well as in institutions and the education system.
Many women, and especially children, held up signs reading slogans such as “Our language is our existence and identity” and “Our language is our right.” During the march, people chanted in unity: “No life without language.”
Defending one’s own language means defending one’s identity and culture.
Culture is created by people and emerges wherever people come together. Throughout history, culture has been strongly transmitted through language: people gathered, told stories, and passed on valuable knowledge about society, nature, and ways of living together.
Semêra Hecelî, co-chair of the Education Authority of the Self-Administration, referred to the history of the Kurdish language struggle and those who lost their lives in it:
“Our martyrs wrote the letters of the Kurdish language with their blood.”
Regarding the current state of the integration agreement, she stated:
“We will continue to work to ensure that our language is anchored in the constitution. We will not accept less than two hours of instruction per week.”
Theatre rehearsal in Hesekê
The importance of self-defense and art became especially clear during our visit to Hesekê at the Community Center for Art and Culture. There, a group of young women are rehearsing a play under the direction of their teacher, Fatma. The play will be performed as part of the “WeAreAllYPJ” campaign.
It tells the stories of fighters from the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ).
Through their facial expressions and body language, the actors create powerful and vivid scenes. Among other things, they depict the battles against ISIS in Şengal, Raqqa, and Kobanê.
The courage and determination for women’s freedom are powerfully embodied by the performers.
The YPJ provides physical protection against patriarchal violence while also strengthening women’s identity. In the current phase of the integration agreement, it also represents the protection of diversity, women’s rights, and democracy.
If the YPJ is not recognized, there can be no real democracy in Syria.
YPJ Campaign
The YPJ campaign was initiated by women’s structures and the YPJ itself to defend the right to an autonomous women’s self-defense force. The YPJ must not be excluded from the Syrian army. Democracy in Syria must be protected.
The campaign calls for active participation. People are encouraged to send in solidarity videos or take part in the hashtag campaign. Materials such as brochures, statements, letters, and actions should be shared via social media or expanded through original contributions.
It also calls for organizing events, seminars, and actions, and for spreading knowledge about the history, struggle, and significance of the YPJ and the achievements of the women’s revolution, especially regarding self-defense. Creative contributions such as film screenings, art actions, theatre, and music are particularly encouraged.
On May 9th at 7:00 PM (Central European Time), a hashtag campaign using #WeAreAllYPJ will take place. Join the campaign and share the hashtag.
Spring Festival at the University
In recent days, students at the University of Rojava organized a spring festival.
The focus was on cultural and artistic activities, while also highlighting the social engagement of young people. Around 1,500 students study here in Kurdish across various fields.
In sunny weather, students, teachers, and cultural workers came together, danced govend, recited poetry, and created a diverse music program. Speeches emphasized that universities are not only places of learning, but also spaces for cultural expression and social engagement.
Art students exhibited works from recent semesters and curated an exhibition. Paintings of colorful landscapes, still lifes, captured moments, and portraits told the stories of the students. Both the beauty of nature and themes of society and resistance were explored.
The highlight of the festival was the games in the university courtyard. Different groups competed in tug-of-war and relay races. The audience enjoyed the shared atmosphere and collective spirit.
With revolutionary greetings from Rojava
The courage and determination for women’s freedom are powerfully embodied by the performers.
The YPJ provides physical protection against patriarchal violence while also strengthening women’s identity. In the current phase of the integration agreement, it also represents the protection of diversity, women’s rights, and democracy.
If the YPJ is not recognized, there can be no real democracy in Syria.
YPJ Campaign
The YPJ campaign was initiated by women’s structures and the YPJ itself to defend the right to an autonomous women’s self-defense force. The YPJ must not be excluded from the Syrian army. Democracy in Syria must be protected.
The campaign calls for active participation. People are encouraged to send in solidarity videos or take part in the hashtag campaign. Materials such as brochures, statements, letters, and actions should be shared via social media or expanded through original contributions.
It also calls for organizing events, seminars, and actions, and for spreading knowledge about the history, struggle, and significance of the YPJ and the achievements of the women’s revolution, especially regarding self-defense. Creative contributions such as film screenings, art actions, theatre, and music are particularly encouraged.
On May 9th at 7:00 PM (Central European Time), a hashtag campaign using #WeAreAllYPJ will take place. Join the campaign and share the hashtag.
Spring Festival at the University
In recent days, students at the University of Rojava organized a spring festival.
The focus was on cultural and artistic activities, while also highlighting the social engagement of young people. Around 1,500 students study here in Kurdish across various fields.
In sunny weather, students, teachers, and cultural workers came together, danced govend, recited poetry, and created a diverse music program. Speeches emphasized that universities are not only places of learning, but also spaces for cultural expression and social engagement.
Art students exhibited works from recent semesters and curated an exhibition. Paintings of colorful landscapes, still lifes, captured moments, and portraits told the stories of the students. Both the beauty of nature and themes of society and resistance were explored.
The highlight of the festival was the games in the university courtyard. Different groups competed in tug-of-war and relay races. The audience enjoyed the shared atmosphere and collective spirit.
With revolutionary greetings from Rojava
Dear friends,
We are writing to you from Rojava, the heart of the women’s revolution.
Rojava is a region in northeastern Syria where a socialist-democratic revolution was declared in 2012. The people here organize themselves according to the social and administrative model of Democratic Confederalism. This concept was developed by Abdullah Öcalan, a leading figure of the Kurdish freedom movement.
According to this model, people organize themselves through grassroots democracy in councils, committees, communes, and women’s structures. Women’s liberation, according to the philosophy of “Jin, Jiyan, Azadî,” is a central pillar of a democratic society. Only when all women are free can society as a whole live in freedom.
Commemoration of Malda Kosar
Malda Kosar, a member of the Jineology Academy, was murdered by ISIS on May 5, 2019, on her way to al-Hol. On the fourth anniversary of her death, a memorial ceremony was held in Heseke, attended by members of the Jineology Academy and the organization Kongra Star.
After a minute of silence, those present spoke about Malda’s work in Jineology. Rozaf Ehmed, a member of the Jineology Academy, expressed condolences to her family and said:
“We commemorate all martyrs of freedom, especially Malda Kosar. She was a martyr in the struggle of women for freedom. Although she was still young, she worked tirelessly for women who wanted to live in a free society. Malda was a strong personality and was dedicated daily to the social sciences. She actively worked to strengthen awareness of women’s freedom. Today, we follow in the path of our comrade and will intensify our struggle and resistance to realize her goals.”
Nûda Salih from Kongra Star also emphasized that the concept of the free woman has spread through the efforts of Malda Kosar and her comrades:
“Today, the philosophy ‘Jin, Jiyan, Azadî’ is known worldwide. Living a free and dignified life is not easy—we pay a high price for it. Long live the free woman!”
May 4 – Commemoration of Dersim
On May 4, many people in Rojava and around the world commemorate the genocide against the Alevi-Kurdish population in Dersim in 1937/38. Tens of thousands of people were killed or deported. To this day, there has been no comprehensive reckoning or recognition as genocide.
Survivors and their descendants refer to this day as “Tertele”—the day “the world came to an end”—or “Roza Reş” (the black day).
Between 70,000 and 80,000 people were killed in the massacre, and tens of thousands more were deported. At the time, the international community remained silent, thereby legitimizing the genocide.
The background was the policy of homogenization, Turkification, and Islamization pursued by then-president Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Non-Turkish populations were to be assimilated; their languages and identities were banned and continue to be suppressed to this day.
In response, an uprising formed in 1937 under the leadership of Seyit Riza. Armed resistance was organized in part by Alişer and Zarife. Women played a central role in this struggle. The demands included self-administration, reforms, and the right to existence and land.
The state responded with military force. On May 4, 1937, the Turkish army was tasked with implementing a “final solution” to the “Dersim problem”—marking the beginning of the genocide. To this day, there has been no full investigation or accountability by the Turkish state.
Iran
With great pain and deep sorrow, we are following developments in Iran. In recent weeks, numerous political prisoners and protesters have been executed.
Mehrab Abdollahzadeh, a protester from Urmia in Eastern Kurdistan, was executed early Sunday morning. The judiciary accused him of being responsible for the death of a Basij member.
Mehdi Rassouli, Mohammad Reza Miri, and Ebrahim Dolatabadi were also executed in connection with the protests. According to official reports, they were accused of spying for Israel and cooperating with intelligence services.
We are writing to you from Rojava, the heart of the women’s revolution.
Rojava is a region in northeastern Syria where a socialist-democratic revolution was declared in 2012. The people here organize themselves according to the social and administrative model of Democratic Confederalism. This concept was developed by Abdullah Öcalan, a leading figure of the Kurdish freedom movement.
According to this model, people organize themselves through grassroots democracy in councils, committees, communes, and women’s structures. Women’s liberation, according to the philosophy of “Jin, Jiyan, Azadî,” is a central pillar of a democratic society. Only when all women are free can society as a whole live in freedom.
Commemoration of Malda Kosar
Malda Kosar, a member of the Jineology Academy, was murdered by ISIS on May 5, 2019, on her way to al-Hol. On the fourth anniversary of her death, a memorial ceremony was held in Heseke, attended by members of the Jineology Academy and the organization Kongra Star.
After a minute of silence, those present spoke about Malda’s work in Jineology. Rozaf Ehmed, a member of the Jineology Academy, expressed condolences to her family and said:
“We commemorate all martyrs of freedom, especially Malda Kosar. She was a martyr in the struggle of women for freedom. Although she was still young, she worked tirelessly for women who wanted to live in a free society. Malda was a strong personality and was dedicated daily to the social sciences. She actively worked to strengthen awareness of women’s freedom. Today, we follow in the path of our comrade and will intensify our struggle and resistance to realize her goals.”
Nûda Salih from Kongra Star also emphasized that the concept of the free woman has spread through the efforts of Malda Kosar and her comrades:
“Today, the philosophy ‘Jin, Jiyan, Azadî’ is known worldwide. Living a free and dignified life is not easy—we pay a high price for it. Long live the free woman!”
May 4 – Commemoration of Dersim
On May 4, many people in Rojava and around the world commemorate the genocide against the Alevi-Kurdish population in Dersim in 1937/38. Tens of thousands of people were killed or deported. To this day, there has been no comprehensive reckoning or recognition as genocide.
Survivors and their descendants refer to this day as “Tertele”—the day “the world came to an end”—or “Roza Reş” (the black day).
Between 70,000 and 80,000 people were killed in the massacre, and tens of thousands more were deported. At the time, the international community remained silent, thereby legitimizing the genocide.
The background was the policy of homogenization, Turkification, and Islamization pursued by then-president Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Non-Turkish populations were to be assimilated; their languages and identities were banned and continue to be suppressed to this day.
In response, an uprising formed in 1937 under the leadership of Seyit Riza. Armed resistance was organized in part by Alişer and Zarife. Women played a central role in this struggle. The demands included self-administration, reforms, and the right to existence and land.
The state responded with military force. On May 4, 1937, the Turkish army was tasked with implementing a “final solution” to the “Dersim problem”—marking the beginning of the genocide. To this day, there has been no full investigation or accountability by the Turkish state.
Iran
With great pain and deep sorrow, we are following developments in Iran. In recent weeks, numerous political prisoners and protesters have been executed.
Mehrab Abdollahzadeh, a protester from Urmia in Eastern Kurdistan, was executed early Sunday morning. The judiciary accused him of being responsible for the death of a Basij member.
Mehdi Rassouli, Mohammad Reza Miri, and Ebrahim Dolatabadi were also executed in connection with the protests. According to official reports, they were accused of spying for Israel and cooperating with intelligence services.
In the past two and a half months, at least 25 political prisoners have been executed, and many more are at risk of execution, including Kurdish political prisoners.
The list of executions continues to grow daily. We will not remain silent.
The Mothers for Peace in Rojhilat are calling for an immediate end to the executions of political prisoners. PJAK also supports this call and urges international pressure and collective mobilization.
New Water Tanks in Qamishlo
An additional water tank is being built in Qamishlo to secure supply and cushion outages. The water infrastructure is being expanded with the support of UNICEF.
The additional storage capacity will make it possible to build water reserves and ensure emergency supply in the future.
Water scarcity is partly the result of Turkish policies that have, for years, used water as a means of pressure by regulating rivers and withholding water.
The consequences include crop failures, depleted wells, the spread of disease, and ecological damage. In recent years, water facilities have also been repeatedly bombed, such as the Alok station, leading to displacement.
Rising Bread Prices in Cizîrê
Bread prices are rising significantly in Qamishlo and Hesekê. In the Cizîrê region, prices are increasing from 4,000 to 5,500 Syrian pounds.
The reason is rising production costs, especially due to the increase in diesel prices from 15 to 55 US cents per liter. Exchange rate fluctuations have also contributed. The price adjustment was demanded by bakery operators.
YPJ Demonstration
On Wednesday, a large solidarity march with the YPJ took place in Qamishlo. Hundreds of people gathered in the streets, carrying YPJ flags and flower symbols.
Together they chanted: “We are all YPJ.”
The Kurdistan Women’s Communities (KJK) support the campaign “We are all YPJ” and call for recognition of the Women’s Protection Units. The refusal of their status by Damascus is seen as an ideological attack on women’s rights.
With revolutionary greetings from Rojava ✊
The list of executions continues to grow daily. We will not remain silent.
The Mothers for Peace in Rojhilat are calling for an immediate end to the executions of political prisoners. PJAK also supports this call and urges international pressure and collective mobilization.
New Water Tanks in Qamishlo
An additional water tank is being built in Qamishlo to secure supply and cushion outages. The water infrastructure is being expanded with the support of UNICEF.
The additional storage capacity will make it possible to build water reserves and ensure emergency supply in the future.
Water scarcity is partly the result of Turkish policies that have, for years, used water as a means of pressure by regulating rivers and withholding water.
The consequences include crop failures, depleted wells, the spread of disease, and ecological damage. In recent years, water facilities have also been repeatedly bombed, such as the Alok station, leading to displacement.
Rising Bread Prices in Cizîrê
Bread prices are rising significantly in Qamishlo and Hesekê. In the Cizîrê region, prices are increasing from 4,000 to 5,500 Syrian pounds.
The reason is rising production costs, especially due to the increase in diesel prices from 15 to 55 US cents per liter. Exchange rate fluctuations have also contributed. The price adjustment was demanded by bakery operators.
YPJ Demonstration
On Wednesday, a large solidarity march with the YPJ took place in Qamishlo. Hundreds of people gathered in the streets, carrying YPJ flags and flower symbols.
Together they chanted: “We are all YPJ.”
The Kurdistan Women’s Communities (KJK) support the campaign “We are all YPJ” and call for recognition of the Women’s Protection Units. The refusal of their status by Damascus is seen as an ideological attack on women’s rights.
With revolutionary greetings from Rojava ✊
Forwarded from WDR Roj
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🌺#WeAreAllYPJ🌺
We from Women Defend Rojava, we join the campaign to defend the women’s revolution in Rojava and the YPJ as a self-defense organization, which guarantees a democratic Syria and the defense of the rights and freedoms that women have fought hard to achieve over the past 12 years of revolution.
The YPJ have demonstrated through their struggles, sacrifices, and victories that women have the power to defend themselves and their society. They have successfully fought against jihadist forces such as ISIS and the fashist turkish state with its misogynistic ideology. They have been and remain an indispensable example of feminist self-defense. #WeAreAllYPJ
We from Women Defend Rojava, we join the campaign to defend the women’s revolution in Rojava and the YPJ as a self-defense organization, which guarantees a democratic Syria and the defense of the rights and freedoms that women have fought hard to achieve over the past 12 years of revolution.
The YPJ have demonstrated through their struggles, sacrifices, and victories that women have the power to defend themselves and their society. They have successfully fought against jihadist forces such as ISIS and the fashist turkish state with its misogynistic ideology. They have been and remain an indispensable example of feminist self-defense. #WeAreAllYPJ
🔥3
Forwarded from Messages from Rojava (Women Defend Rojava)
We are all YPJ! Self-defence is our natural right!
🟡 Online Talk: with YPJ & the Women's Movement in Rojava
The focus will be on the achievements of the women’s movement in recent years—and, above all, on the question of what future the YPJ has in the current integration process in Syria. While political negotiations on the integration of the self-administration are ongoing, key advances in women’s rights are increasingly coming under pressure. What role will the YPJ play in the future? What do the current developments mean for women’s rights and self-determination in the region?
📅 May 13, 2026
🕖 7:00 PM Central Europeen Time
Join us, get informed first-hand, and take part in a discussion about perspectives and challenges.
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/f18ycMOaR_G1ipDY-BYJRQ
🟡 Online Talk: with YPJ & the Women's Movement in Rojava
The focus will be on the achievements of the women’s movement in recent years—and, above all, on the question of what future the YPJ has in the current integration process in Syria. While political negotiations on the integration of the self-administration are ongoing, key advances in women’s rights are increasingly coming under pressure. What role will the YPJ play in the future? What do the current developments mean for women’s rights and self-determination in the region?
📅 May 13, 2026
🕖 7:00 PM Central Europeen Time
Join us, get informed first-hand, and take part in a discussion about perspectives and challenges.
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/f18ycMOaR_G1ipDY-BYJRQ
Forwarded from WDR Roj
🌺Campaign - Women Defend Rojava🌺
Social ecology is a pillar of the Rojava revolutionary political paradigm. Focuses on how nature’s exploitation and society’s oppression, especially women’s oppression, are intertwined.
In Rojava, with his vision and with a communal and cooperatives economic system, work is being done to change society's relationship with nature and the role of women within it. Today we’ll talk about how this principles become a reality.
Social ecology, communal and cooperative economy. These principles are applied day by day in Rojava with revolutionary projects that want to balance society’s needs with nature’s capacities, achieving women’s autonomy and creating structures that hold a life free of exploitation nor oppression.
Social ecology is a pillar of the Rojava revolutionary political paradigm. Focuses on how nature’s exploitation and society’s oppression, especially women’s oppression, are intertwined.
In Rojava, with his vision and with a communal and cooperatives economic system, work is being done to change society's relationship with nature and the role of women within it. Today we’ll talk about how this principles become a reality.
Social ecology, communal and cooperative economy. These principles are applied day by day in Rojava with revolutionary projects that want to balance society’s needs with nature’s capacities, achieving women’s autonomy and creating structures that hold a life free of exploitation nor oppression.