In a war-torn corner of north-east Syria, a beacon of hope has emerged in the form of Jinwar, a women-only commune that offers a sanctuary from conflict and hardship. Since its establishment in 2018, this extraordinary settlement near Qamishli has provided a safe haven for those fleeing violence and societal oppression – and it is a development that holds significant implications for British readers.
Jinwar, which translates to 'women's space' in Kurdish, is home to approximately 25 women and their children from diverse backgrounds, including Kurds, Arabs, and Yazidis. Many residents have sought refuge after losing loved ones to Islamic State (IS) or escaping abusive relationships. The community takes pride in its self-sufficiency, with residents constructing mud-brick homes, tending gardens filled with vegetables and fruit trees, and running a school, bakery, and healthcare centre.
Although men from outside are permitted to visit, they are strictly prohibited from living or staying overnight within the commune's walls – a deliberate decision designed to safeguard women's autonomy and agency. The village was conceived as a direct response to the pervasive violence, discrimination, and challenges faced by women in the region during the Syrian civil war.
Welat, 55, who arrived over a year ago after separating from her husband, has found her 'true self' in Jinwar, participating in Kurdish-language classes and communal watch duties. The atmosphere is characterised by solidarity and mutual support, with women sharing responsibilities for running the commune and fostering strong relationships.
Nujîn Mihemed, 57, moved to Jinwar four and a half years ago following her husband's death, having faced significant hardship and oppression within broader society and even her own family. She now contributes to daily tasks, from baking bread to taking shifts on watch duty – highlighting the collective effort that underpins daily life in this remarkable community.
Photographer Matteo Trevisan has captured the essence of life in Jinwar as part of a broader series documenting female-led communities across north-east Syria. His work also features women from the nearby ecological village of Jarudi, where women lead but men are permitted, and members of women's civil defence committees in Qamishli – illustrating a wider movement towards female empowerment and self-organisation in the region.