Enter the EPLF

However it wasn't until the EPLF was formed as a split-away vanguard front from the ELF that the woman question obtained its fullest expression. The reactionary leadership of the ELF did not grasp the importance of mobilising women to fully participate in the struggle. Backward, feudal attitudes manifested themselves in the ELF's declaration that "women's liberation is postponed, along with the fight for all fundamental changes until after [unclear: indepenuence]". Women were [unclear: loroiuacn] from running away from chauvinist husbands. Many women fighters were forced to quit and became disillusioned refugees.

The EPLF on the other hand firmly believes that without the active participation of women, national liberation will not be achieved; that women are capable of playing a significant role in transforming the society. 'Fighter' designates all cadres in the EPLF, not simply front-line combatants. Everyone receives military training and are then sent to work in different sectors of the Front. Women are active as combatants, political organisers, educators and workers, officially constituting 13% of front line fighters and 30% of the EPLF as a whole. As the war intensifies and women become more politicised the proportion of women recruits is increasing.

Although women's participation at top ranking levels is limited due to their low educational level and lack of experience, it is the major participation of women as middle-level cadres which assures them a vital role in liberation, mediating between the Front and the people, as well as rebuilding the liberated areas.

Child marriage is outlawed; through education and health they're attacking such cruel practices as infibulation; and they have given divorcees 50% of conjugal property.