#GenderingGeopolitics with Emily Prey: Meghan Bodette discusses women & the SDF Damascus integration
From Gendering Geopolitics
Meghan Bodette•Director of Research at the Kurdish Peace Institute
Executive Summary
The integration agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Damascus government is failing to incorporate women into senior political and military roles, rolling back progress made under the Kurdish administration.
The new Syrian government is blocking the integration of thousands of battle-hardened female fighters from the Women's Protection Units (YPJ) into the national army, offering them only positions in internal security forces.
This exclusion makes Syria a regional outlier, as neighboring countries like Jordan, Iraq, and even conservative Gulf states permit women in their armed forces, as do Syria's key allies, the US and Turkey.
Integrating women into the military is presented not just as a rights issue, but as a security imperative for Syria to effectively counter threats like ISIS, engage with the female civilian population, and build a cohesive national identity.
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Concerns Raised
The new Syrian government is actively rejecting female candidates for senior posts and blocking YPJ fighters from integrating into the army.
Gains in women's rights and participation achieved under the Kurdish administration are at high risk of being reversed.
Excluding women from the military creates significant security vulnerabilities, especially in counter-insurgency operations against groups like ISIS.
Elements within the new government's armed forces have a documented history of perpetrating sexual and gender-based violence.
Opportunities Identified
Integrating the experienced YPJ would significantly enhance the military's operational effectiveness against ongoing security threats.
Syria could align with regional and international norms on women's military service, strengthening its legitimacy and relationships with allies.
Advocates can leverage Syria's existing legal commitments, including its constitutional declaration and ratification of CEDAW, to push for women's full participation.