Brussels, 12.02.2025
In light of the ongoing crisis in Syria and the unique experiences in North and East Syria (Rojava), it is crucial to promote alternative, democratic and inclusive models for the reconstruction and political future of the region. With its concept of decentralised self-administration, the promotion of gender equality and inter-ethnic dialogue, Rojava has provided important impetus that can also be groundbreaking for Syria as a whole.
As part of the Syria conference in Paris, our aim is to call on the international community – above all France and its European partners – to recognise and actively support Kurdish self-administration as a constructive component of a comprehensive peace process in Syria. The relevance of current UN resolutions on the human rights situation and the protection of minorities in crisis regions emphasises the urgent need for action.
1. political status and self-government
Federal solution for Syria:
Syria’s future must be anchored in a federal system that does justice to its cultural and ethnic diversity. This requires a departure from the centralised model and a reform of the Syrian state.
Recognition of the AANES:
The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) must be recognised as a legitimate actor in the political process. Together with other European partners, France should press for AANES to be included in multilateral negotiations – in particular with reference to current UN resolutions calling for the protection of autonomous regions.
Turning away from authoritarian systems:
A return to a centrally controlled regime, as practised under Assad, is not an option. Rather, an inclusive political framework is needed that takes all population groups in Syria into account.
2. Human rights, democracy and the protection of minorities
Democratic model as a role model:
The model of direct democracy established in Rojava, which includes all ethnic and religious groups, represents an innovative approach. It corresponds to the values of the UN Charter of Human Rights and should be supported and further developed as such.
Women’s rights as a cornerstone:
Women play a central role in politics and society in Rojava. This achievement is not only a role model for the region, but also an element that France should emphasise and promote as an advocate of women’s rights.
Protection of minorities:
Ensuring the rights of religious and ethnic minorities is essential for social cohesion. France, as an active player in international human rights forums, should particularly emphasise the protection of these groups and support corresponding initiatives.
3. International recognition and protection from aggression
Diplomatic involvement and UN standards:
AANES must be recognised as a legitimate negotiating partner at international level, for example via the UN. France can act as a bridge builder here and actively work towards the implementation of relevant UN resolutions that call for the protection and recognition of autonomous regions.
End Turkish aggression:
Turkey’s occupation of Kurdish territories such as Afrin, Serê Kaniyê (Ras al-Ain) and Girê Spî (Tell Abyad) in violation of international law must be condemned by the international community. France and the EU should exert diplomatic pressure to end these occupations and establish long-term security guarantees.
International protection measures:
An international protection mission, possibly under a UN mandate, could help to secure Rojava. France is called upon to actively contribute proposals and strengthen the European security architecture.
4. fight against terrorism and the IS threat
Continuing the fight against IS:
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have contributed significantly to the fight against IS. Further international cooperation is needed to combat terrorism in the long term. France should be involved in this not only militarily, but above all through diplomatic and economic support.
Repatriation of IS prisoners:
The international community – especially European states – must fulfil its responsibility and participate in a just solution to the IS prisoner issue instead of placing the burden solely on AANES.
Stabilisation and reconstruction:
Long-term stability in the region can only be achieved through the reconstruction of destroyed infrastructure and the promotion of economic prospects. France should hold out the prospect of financial aid and investment in sustainable, decentralised economic models in Rojava.
5. Economy, reconstruction and humanitarian aid
Overcoming economic isolation:
The economic blockade by neighbouring states, particularly Turkey, is making reconstruction more difficult. France and the EU are called upon to exert pressure so that trade routes can be reopened and humanitarian aid can be provided unhindered.
Promoting sustainable economic models:
The co-operative and community-based economic models in Rojava offer an alternative concept to classical capitalism. These models deserve international support – especially as an example of more socially just development in crisis regions.
Impartial humanitarian aid:
Humanitarian organisations must be able to operate in Rojava without political instrumentalisation. France should endeavour to ensure that international aid deliveries are unhindered and in accordance with UN human rights standards.
6. dialogue with the Syrian central government and international actors
Inclusive negotiation process:
A lasting peace in Syria can only be achieved through an inclusive dialogue in which the representatives of AANES also act on an equal footing with the Syrian central government. France should act as a mediator between the parties to the conflict.
Multipolar solutions instead of authoritarian dominance:
Neither Russia nor Turkey should act as the sole power players in Syria. France and the EU must advocate a multipolar approach based on transparency, democracy and the protection of human rights.
Integration into the UN peace process:
AANES should be integrated into the peace process initiated by the UN. France can act as a bridge-builder here to ensure that the Kurdish perspective is fully taken into account in future negotiations.
Conclusion and demands:
We demand:
1. political recognition and integration of the AANES in international negotiation processes.
2. international protection and security guarantees, especially against Turkish aggression.
3. economic support and reconstruction for sustainable development in Rojava.
4. strengthening human rights, especially of women and minorities.
5. involvement in the UN peace process to ensure a just solution for Syria.
France has the opportunity and the responsibility to play an active role in shaping the peace process in Syria. We call on French politicians and the international community to take concrete measures to recognise and support Kurdish self-government.
Brussels, 12.02.2025
Kurdish Diaspora Confederation – Diakurd
Kurdische Gemeinde Deutschland e.V.
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