In 2012, amidst the civil war in Syria, Kurdish forces seized the opportunity to establish a form of political autonomy in northeastern areas that were vacated by Bashar al-Assad’s troops. This move towards autonomy was influenced by the ideologies of Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned leader of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). The PKK, known for integrating women into its ranks and promoting the development of Jineolojî, “the science of women”, has played a significant role in shaping the societal norms in this region.
Somayeh Rostampour, a researcher, describes Jineolojî as a critical approach to mainstream feminism, challenging the Eurocentric and elitist views often associated with it. Verona Evdke, co-president of the Ecology Academy of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, emphasizes the importance of environmental and women’s rights in building a new society.
The intersection of ecological and feminist struggles is a central theme in the region. Women like Pusaina Mohamad, co-president of Raqqa’s Environment Office, believe that the exploitation of nature is interconnected with the oppression of women within patriarchal, capitalist, and colonial systems. Initiatives focusing on ecological projects led by women, such as reforestation efforts and planting projects, highlight the link between women’s liberation and environmental conservation.
In the arid landscapes of Rojava, women’s organizations like Kongra Star are making strides in agriculture and sustainability. Nisrine Ahmad, co-director of a farm near Oudah, notes the resilience of women in the face of adversity, with the number of women involved in farming doubling over the years. The goal is to empower women to become self-sufficient through agricultural work, providing them with emotional and financial support.
Further west in the village of Jinwar, a unique community rooted in ecology and Jineolojî is flourishing. Women in Jinwar live free from patriarchal influences, cultivating the land and sharing knowledge based on ecological principles. Delal Haji Omar, a resident of Jinwar, expresses gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with nature and learn about women’s rights in a safe environment.
Jinwar serves as a model of resistance and empowerment, offering women the chance to rediscover their innate connection to the earth. Through educational initiatives and community engagement, women in Jinwar strive to pass on their knowledge and create a sustainable future for generations to come.
Despite the challenges and complexities of the region, the voices of women advocating for ecological sustainability and gender equality are gaining momentum. The intertwining of ecological and feminist movements underscores the importance of addressing systemic issues to create a more just and equitable society.
This article was written by Amélie David, a freelance journalist based in Lebanon, with support from local contributors. The narrative sheds light on the transformative efforts of women in Rojava and their commitment to building a more inclusive and environmentally conscious society.
