The Women’s Institution in Rojava Unmuted Women? A Case Study of the Women’s House (Mala Jin)

Abstract (English)

The Rojava Revolution, often termed a “women’s revolution”, represents a significant socio-political transformation within the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES). Through the implementation of Democratic Confederalism and the establishment of Jineoloji as a foundational philosophy, the women of Rojava have carved out unprecedented spaces of autonomy and influence. The establishment of women’s institutions, such as the Kongra Star, the Mala Jin, and various councils, has not only challenged but also reshaped traditional gender roles in a region long dominated by patriarchal norms. This article seeks to analyse the gender movement practices and women’s institutions within Rojava. By applying the “muted groups” theory, the research not only highlights how the establishment of these women-centric institutions represents a significant shift in the social and political landscape of Rojava, but also addresses the complexities and limitations faced by them, especially through the lens of the Mala Jin (Women’s Houses) - a platform to provide legal, social, and psychological support to women facing violence and discrimination. Through an in-depth analysis of Mala Jin, this study contributes to the broader discourse on women’s rights in conflict zones and post-revolutionary societies, illustrating how grassroots institutions can play a pivotal role in redefining gender relations and supporting women’s liberation in the face of entrenched societal norms.