On the second anniversary of the killing in Iran of the young Kurdish woman Jina (Mahsa) Amini and the start of the “Jin, Jiyan, Azadi” (Woman, Life, Freedom) uprising, the Women’s Committee of the Kurdistan National Congress (KNK) has called on Kurdish women, whether in Kurdistan or in the diaspora, to unite in this common struggle.
In a statement marking this anniversary, the Women’s Committee paid tribute to the memory of Jina Amini and honoured all the martyrs who have given their lives for freedom and equality. Their memory, the statement emphasised, continues to inspire the tireless pursuit of justice.
The statement further recalled how, following Amini’s brutal killing by the Islamic regime of Iran after her arrest for inapproriate wearing of the hijab in 2022, Kurdish women led the monumental “Jin, Jiyan, Azadi” uprising, resisting the oppression of the Islamic Republic. Their courage and solidarity sparked a widespread movement right across Iran, and in the Kurdish-majority region in particular, embodying the powerful slogan.
Reflecting on the century-long struggle of Kurdish women against the fascist regimes occupying Kurdistan, the Women’s Committee highlighted how these women have consistently defied authoritarianism, patriarchy and repression. Despite facing tremendous opposition, they have stood firm in their defence of freedom and equality.
The Committee urges Kurdish women, both at home and in the diaspora, to draw strength from the steadfast will of those who have championed the cause of liberty. By continuing their efforts under the banner of “Women, Life, Freedom” and organising themselves with unwavering determination, they can ensure the expansion and endurance of this vital movement.
Finally, the Committee calls on all international organisations and democratic institutions worldwide to take a decisive stance against policies targeting Kurdish people, women’s rights and the freedom fighters who risk their lives for justice.
