About the Women’s Foundation

The Foundation of Free Women in Syria (Weqfa Jina Azad a Sûrî) is an independent social organization operating in Syria and was founded on 1 September 2014 by Kurdish and Arab women in Qamishlo (initially as the Foundation of Free Women in Rojava – WJAR). With its work in North and East Syria and Syria, it supports women on the economic, social, health and cultural levels, as well as through education.

The Foundation strives with its work for

• gender equality
• equal rights for different languages and religious affiliations
• respect between ethnic and social groups in Syria.

A fundamental goal of the Free Women’s Foundation in Syria is to promote the autonomy of women and improve their living conditions by providing services in the areas of education, health and economics. Increased efforts are being made to expand educational opportunities and create jobs. WJAS strives for cooperation between all ethnic groups and religions, including within its own structures. With all its projects, the foundation supports freedom of thought and the development of the personality of women and children. The foundation’s work is aimed at promoting the independence, social participation and activities of women through a new life shaped by women themselves.

In contrast to the European concept of a foundation, the capital of the WJAS consists of idealistic goals and personal commitment.

Work areas and planning are decided at the general meetings. The foundation’s work is based on surveys carried out by staff members with women about their own needs and the needs of society.

The Free Women’s Foundation in Syria manages the projects and is responsible for their successful implementation. In all projects, we work together with partner organizations and the people responsible there.

The Women’s Foundation is a member of various councils and commissions, including the Women’s Health Council, the Women’s Council of North and east Syria, the Committee for Children’s Issues and the Syrian Women’s Council and also represents women’s rights in the legislative council.

The Women’s Foundation has contributed to the articulation of the new family law and subsequently to its implementation: i.e. against polygamy (which is still accepted among women in some cases) and child marriage. Through home visits and seminars, the foundation is working towards social acceptance of these laws.

• Qamishlo
• Çilaxa
• Dêrik
• Dirbêsiyê
• Girkê Legê
• Hesekê
• Kobanê
• Minbij
• Raqqa
• Sêrîn
• Aleppo
• Tabqa
• Tepke

In the Camps

• Al Hol
• Roj
• Washokanî
• Mahmûdiyê

Naturopathy centers

• Hesekê
• Dirbêsiyê

(still being worked on)