Our Statement on Rojava and Syria After Assad
For over a decade, rebels opposing the Assad regime have fought to challenge its authoritarian rule. On December 8, the foreign-backed insurgency led by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) reached Damascus, resulting in the regime’s collapse and ending a half-century of control in Syria. This moment marks a significant turning point in Syrian history, offering an opportunity to rebuild the country on the principles of democracy, peace, and inclusion.
The Assad regime long refused to recognize Syria’s ethnic and religious diversity, including the Kurdish population, who have for decades faced systemic marginalization. Since 2012, however, Syria’s Kurds, alongside their allies, have established the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), sometimes known as Rojava, an inclusive governance model that champions women’s empowerment, ethnic harmony, and democratic values. Today AANES governs nearly 40 percent of Syria’s territory and stands as a powerful example of what is possible for all Syrians.
In the wake of Assad’s departure, the leadership of AANES has expressed a willingness to work toward a unified Syrian future—one where democracy thrives, women have equal participation, and minorities are guaranteed their rights and dignity. We fully support this vision and urge all stakeholders to ensure its realization.
However, a serious obstacle threatens this moment of hope. Türkiye’s leadership continues its aggression toward the Kurds and AANES. Since the 2012 revolution, Türkiye has actively opposed Kurdish-led self-governance and used radical proxies, such as the Syrian National Army (SNA), to destabilize northeastern Syria. In recent days, Turkish-backed forces have seized control of Manbij (Minbîc), committing brutal executions of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighters. Turkish drone strikes and artillery attacks in Afrin, Shehba, Kobanî, and near the Tishreen Dam have killed dozens of civilians and displaced thousands, undermining peace and stability. Most recently a drone killed two Kurdish ANHA journalists, Cîhan Bîlgîn and Nazim Dashtan.
The Kurdish people of Syria, alongside their allies, have fought tirelessly for a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive society, often at great cost. They have been a steadfast partner in the global fight against ISIS–including the ongoing detention of more than 10,000 ISIS fighters–ensuring security for the region and beyond.
We call on the United States and its allies to reaffirm their commitments to the SDF and AANES and to prevent Turkish military aggression from derailing the path toward peace. We urge all parties involved in Syria’s future—HTS, international coalitions, and other actors—to include AANES representatives in negotiations and ensure the protection of women, minorities, and democratic governance.
We further call on the Turkish government to cease its hostile actions, which only serve to perpetuate conflict and suffering, and instead pursue policies of dialogue and cooperation. Finally, we urge the United Nations to follow through with UNSCR 2254 to take an active role in facilitating a democratic transition, protecting minority rights, and ensuring the safe return of displaced communities across Syria.
The Kurdish people and their allies have shown that a better Syria—one that is democratic, inclusive, and peaceful—is possible. It is time for the world to support this vision and stand on the side of peace, justice, and freedom for all Syrians.
New York Kurdish Cultural Center
Signatories
American Kurdish Association
Canadian Kurdish Community Center
Rojava Film Commune
Kurdish Student Organization at George Mason University
Together for Kurdistan
Mala Kurdan Switzerland
JudiKa
Kurdish Cultural Center of Illinois
Kurdish American Community Association
Tennessee Kurdish Community Council
If your organization would like to sign our statement, please contact us at info@nykcc.org.
