Speaking on the 13th anniversary of the Rojava Revolution, #YPJ# General Commander #Rohilat Efrîn# emphasized that 19 July is not only a political shift but also a symbol of women’s struggle for freedom.
The YPJ General Commander Rohilat Efrîn spoke to ANF about the 19 July Rojava Revolution and said that it was not only a political shift but also a symbol of women’s struggle for freedom.
Rohilat Efrîn stated that the popular uprisings that began in Syria in 2011 turned into a stance against the oppressive and denialist mentality dominating the region. She described the July 19 Revolution as the beginning of constructing a new life, saying: “The 19 July Revolution started among the Kurdish people but had a powerful impact on all communities in North and East Syria (...) It became a breath of life for all components of society.”
YPJ is not just a defense force but a symbol of the free woman
Rohilat Efrîn highlighted that the YPJ (Women’s Defense Units) has been a foundational pillar of the achievements of the revolution, noting that women have become not only fighters but also pioneers of ideological and societal transformation. She stated that the YPJ is more than a military force—it is a symbol of the free woman and a source of inspiration for women's movements around the world.
The General Commander emphasized that through YPJ’s resistance—especially in the fight against ISIS—it became clear that women are not only to be defended, but are also powerful individuals capable of defending their own communities.
Emphasis on a decentralized democratic Syria
Rohilat Efrîn noted that a stable system has still not been established in Syria, underlining the need for a democratic, pluralistic, and decentralized structure. She said: “All peoples and components in Syria need a decentralized and democratic system.”
She stressed that Syria—home to diverse peoples and cultures—must move away from monolithic structures and adopt a system where each component is represented with free will.
These are not stories, but epics of heroism
The YPJ Commander stated that the revolution has left a legacy not only for the peoples of Syria but also for women around the world, and that this legacy will be carried even further: “Women shouldered the burden of this revolution and turned it into a model of defense for women worldwide. These are not stories—they are epics lived by real heroes.”[1]