A Movement within the Movement: Kurdish Women fighters and their Contribution to the Liberation Struggle

Abstract

In reference to Social Movement Theories (SMT) and gender studies, this article critically examines Kurdish women mobilizations, focusing on its historical context, ideological framework, strategies, organizational structure, challenges, and contributions for the Kurdish fight for liberation. Drawing on 47 interviews with female participants and fighters within the Kurdish Workers’ Party (PKK), YPJ (Women’s Protection Units-Yekîneyên Parastina Jin) and other groups, carried out in different localities in Syria, Turkey and Iran, the research will critically analyse the women movement, providing insight into its strengths, limitations, and broader implications for gender equality and social justice.