This statement is viewable below, and available to download as pdf here: TJK-E Kobanê statement – English
International Day of Action on January 25/26, 2025
The history of Kobanê shines like a beacon of resistance, its rays reaching not only the Middle East but the entire world. Kobanê stands for freedom, for the women’s revolution, for the courage of a people who rose up against oppression and tyranny. This place has become a symbol of the unwavering wall to stand for a fairer world—a world where gender liberation, grassroots democracy, and dignity are not just dreams but lived realites.
However, today, the situation in the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria remands us that no victory is permanent if the values of a revolution are not resolutely defended. The attacks by Turkey and its jihadist mercenary armies—shadows of ISIS in a new guise—are attempting to destroy everything Kobanê has built. Their misogynistic violence is like a poisonous storm sweeping through the region, threatening to suffocate the hope for a liberated society.
Yet Kobanê still means: Resistance. Hope. Unyieldingness. Like a tree standing firm amidst a roaring storm, it is the women who are fighting at the forefront. They are the roots of this revolution; they are the flame that does not extinguish, no matter how much the darkness tries to swallow it. Their fight for dignity, freedom, and justice inspires us all and remands us that solidarity is the strongest weapon against oppression.
Ten years ago, on January 26, 2015, Kobanê declared its liberation after 142 days and nights of heroic resistance. The People’s Defense Units (YPG) and Women’s Defense Units (YPJ), along with international supporters, repelled the attacks of the so-called Islamic State (ISIS), which had attempted to take the city with the support of Turkey. This victory was not only a turning point in the fight against ISIS terror but became a symbol of the women’s will for freedom, the strength of community, and international solidarity.
The defense of Kobanê changed the course of history and laid the foundation for the liberation of further areas of Syria and Iraq. In the liberated regions, democratic self-governance structures emerged, based on the principles of grassroots democracy, women’s liberation, and ecological justice. Yet, as it was then, today Kobanê is once again the target of illegal attacks by Turkey. With new names and the same brutality, mercenary troops under Turkey’s command are committing genocides and feminicides to destroy the achievements of the Rojava Revolution.
The defense of Kobanê is the defense of the women’s revolution and of humanity! The defense of Kobanê is the guarantee of democracy and freedom in the region!
Therefore, as the Kurdish Women’s Movement in Europe (TJK-E), we call on all freedom-loving people, women’s organizations, and social movements to participate in the International Day of Action on January 25/26, 2025. Demonstrations, rallies, cultural events, and creative actions on this day will show worldwide that solidarity with Kobanê and the Rojava Revolution is alive and unbreakable.
Please film and photograph your actions and send the footage to TJK-E’s email address:
Email: kurdishwomensmovement@gmail.com
Together with Kongra Star and Women Defend Rojava, we call for this historic day to become a symbol of international resistance.
Jin Jiyan Azadî! Bijî berxwedana Rojava!