World
22:55, 04-Nov-2017
Over 50 female volunteers in Syria join 'National Defense Forces'
["other","Middle East"]
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More than 50 female volunteers in Syria have joined the "National Defense Forces" (NDF), an organization founded by the Syrian government to alleviate the shortage of soldiers during the long war in the country.
The female volunteers in the NDF were selected under a series of strict standards, as the number of women applying for enrollment had been much larger than expected, according to the unit command.
"We joined the army to protect our hometown, and let our people live in safety. We have the same rights as men to safeguard our hometown. You know, Syria is a country advocating gender equality," said Jiana Eid, a soldier in the NDF.
The training courses for the female soldiers are different according to their physical fitness. Most learned mine clearance and reconnaissance, while some will receive combat training for two months and fight on the frontline against terrorist and extremist groups.
Though aware of the dangers they face on the battlefield, most of the female soldiers have no regrets.
"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 males and females, old and young people have the same obligation," said Jiana.
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