REPORT: Over 50 female volunteers in Syria join “National Defense Forces”

More than 50 female volunteers in Syria have joined the “National Defense Forces” (NDF) which was founded by the Syrian government to alleviate the shortage of soldiers during the long-lasting war in the country.

The female volunteers in the NDF were selected under a series of strict standards, because the number of women applying for enrollment had been much larger than expected, according to the female soldier unit command.

“We joined the army to protect our hometown, and let our people live in safety. We have the same right as men to safeguarding our hometown. You know, Syria is a country advocating gender equality,” said a female volunteer soldier.

The training courses of the female soldiers are different according to their physical condition. Common female soldiers learned mine clearance and reconnaissance, while some other stronger female soldiers would receive combat drills for two months, and fought on the frontline to implement military strikes against the terrorist and extremist groups.

“As you can see, female soldiers are brave on the battlefield. They are strong and proud of joining the army. We think they are as important as male soldiers and treat them in the same way. They can enjoy all the rights. Male and female soldiers share the same wages, ranks and uniforms,” said the commander of the female soldiers.

Though realizing the dangers they are faced with on the battlefield, most of the female soldiers have no regrets about their choice.

“I'm not worried about my family, because all of my family members agree with my choice. Everyone should protect his or her hometown and country. All male and female, old and young people have the same obligation,” said Jiana Eid, a female soldier in the NDF.