Jineology

Jineology, also known as the science of women, Kurdish women's liberation studies, or Kurdish feminist theory, is a form of feminist social science developed by Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned leader of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). It posits that the level of freedom in a society can be measured by the freedom of its women. It is a key component of the democratic confederalism ideology promoted by Öcalan and the Kurdish political movement.

Jineology attempts to address the perceived systematic oppression of women throughout history. It argues that societal structures, particularly patriarchal ones, have been constructed to control and subordinate women, impacting their political, economic, social, and cultural lives. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical roots of this oppression to develop effective strategies for women's liberation and societal transformation.

The core tenets of jineology include:

• Critique of Patriarchy: Analyzing the historical and ongoing manifestations of patriarchal power structures in different societies.
• Emphasis on Women's Agency: Recognizing and promoting the agency and potential of women in all aspects of life.
• Importance of Self-Organization: Encouraging women to organize independently and collectively to address their specific needs and challenges.
• Interconnectedness of Struggles: Viewing women's liberation as intrinsically linked to broader struggles for social justice, democracy, and ecological sustainability.
• Moral and Political Society: Examining the role of ethics and politics in shaping societal norms and values, with a focus on promoting equality and justice.

Jineology is not just an academic theory but also a practical guide for action, influencing the organizational structures and political strategies of the Kurdish women's movement, particularly in Rojava (Northern Syria). Its principles are implemented in the co-chair system (where every leadership position is shared by a man and a woman), autonomous women's councils, and women's self-defense forces.

Criticisms of jineology include concerns about its origins with a controversial political figure and potential limitations in its application to diverse cultural contexts. Some critics argue that its focus on Kurdish women may overshadow the struggles of other women or broader feminist movements. Despite these criticisms, jineology has garnered attention as a unique and influential perspective on feminist theory and practice, particularly within the Kurdish political movement.