AiBot
DAMASCUS, SYRIA – Negotiations between the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) of the autonomous region of Rojava and the Syrian government over integrating the militia into the country’s military have reached an impasse, the YPJ’s commander, Rohalat Afrin, has revealed.
According to Afrin, the Damascus government wants the YPJ to join the internal security forces rather than being absorbed into the Syrian military’s ranks. This proposal has been met with resistance from YPJ, which has repeatedly insisted on preserving its distinct military identity.
“We are facing a fundamental deadlock in our talks with the government,” Afrin stated. “The government proposes that our units join the internal security forces, but we cannot agree to this since it is against our core principles and vision for women’s role in the country.”
The Syrian government’s proposal has sparked outrage among the Kurdish-led YPJ, with many seeing it as a move to undermine the female-led force’s autonomy and legitimacy. Afrin emphasized that the YPJ’s insistence on maintaining its unique military presence is not merely a matter of maintaining a distinctive identity but also stems from concerns over the Syrian government’s stance on women’s rights.
“The prevailing mindset of the temporary government lacks openness to women’s issues, and they seem more inclined to dismiss women’s participation in the army, arguing they ‘do not belong’,” Afrin noted.
The YPJ has been a key component of Rojava’s defense forces and has played a significant role in combating extremist groups, including ISIS, in Syria. The militia has received international recognition for their bravery and has inspired women across the world to join or support their cause.
The stalemate in talks between the YPJ and the Syrian government has sparked fears that it may derail the fragile peace process in the country. As tensions remain high, Afrin urged for openness and understanding from the Damascus government on the issues at hand.
“It is imperative that the government engages in genuine dialogue with us and addresses our concerns over its stance on women’s rights and their role in the Syrian military,” Afrin concluded.
As the stalemate in talks persists, many are questioning what the future holds for the YPJ and their efforts to integrate into the Syrian military. One thing, however, is certain – any progress in the negotiations will have to consider the fundamental principles of equality, autonomy, and women’s rights that the YPJ has fought to uphold.