The People's Protection Units, known as YPG, are a Kurdish militia group primarily based in Syria. Formed in 2011 during the Syrian Civil War, the YPG aims to protect Kurdish communities and promote autonomy in the region. They have been involved in various conflicts against extremist groups, including ISIS, and have received support from international forces, particularly the United States. The YPG is part of a broader political movement associated with the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD), which seeks greater rights and recognition for the Kurdish population in Syria. The group has established a governance system in areas under its control, focusing on democratic principles and gender equality.