An Argentine and Mexican delegation visited the YPJ and attended the annual ceremony held in celebration of the 12th anniversary of the founding of the YPJ. The event also coincided with the birthday of Leader Abdullah Öcalan on April 4.
Northeast Syria, with its unique model of communal life, ethnic and religious diversity, coexistence, and cultural exchange, has become a source of inspiration for freedom seekers. Amidst the chaos and crisis caused by the nation-state system, individuals and organizations from various countries have turned to Northeast Syria in search of an alternative model—namely, the system of democratic confederalism. Among these visitors was a delegation from Argentina and Mexico, which included members of the feminist movement—doctors, teachers, and intellectuals. During the visit, feminist activist Claudia Korol from Argentina shared her thoughts and feelings about the democratic nation system, which has become a tangible reality in Northeast Syria.
“The Women’s Protection Units are a revolution that adds essence to all others”
Argentinian activist Claudia Korol spoke about the Kurdish women’s revolution, saying: “For us, the Kurdish women’s revolution is extremely important—full of vitality and spirit. We remember in particular our friend Alina Sanchez, known by her nom de guerre ‘Lêgerîn Ciya.’ She was our comrade in the struggle and guided us toward the importance of the 21st-century revolution.”
Claudia Korol expressed her emotions regarding her visit to Northeast Syria and the significance of the Women’s Protection Units, stating: “Being here on this special day is like a dream come true, as it marks both the birthday of Leader Apo and the anniversary of the founding of the Women’s Protection Units. The YPJ represents a force of women’s self-defense, and at the same time, it is the most vital component in safeguarding society. That is why the Kurdish women’s revolution must be protected.”
“We stand with this revolution with all our strength”
Claudia drew attention to how the women’s revolution influences women around the world and evaluated it as follows: “We consider the Kurdish women’s revolution to be our own, because it adds essence to other revolutions and brings them to life. Our slogan ‘Defend Rojava’ is a truth—we will defend this revolution with all our strength. The reality of the YPJ revolution has become a symbol for the world. As social movements in Abya Yala, we see our dreams, our revolutions, and the essence of our feminist ideology reflected in this revolution.”
The Argentinian activist emphasized that the historic appeal by the internationalist leader Abdullah Öcalan to build a peaceful and democratic society is extremely important for the Middle East and the entire world: “Peace is indeed much harder to achieve than war. We have come here to protect the Rojava revolution, the women’s revolution, and Leader Apo. We know from the peace processes in Abya Yala how difficult the uprisings of leaders can be. And this protection is a responsibility that falls on the shoulders of all the women of the world. Let everyone know that we will support you until our last breath.”[1]