Kurdish leaders in Syria are pursuing a unified representation for their interests amidst political divisions. The ENKS and SDF are attempting to negotiate a collective Kurdish stance while addressing internal conflicts and external pressures from Turkey and HTS. The outcome of these efforts is vital for Kurdish rights and representation in post-Assad Syria.
In the face of longstanding divisions, Kurdish political leaders are striving for a unified representation to articulate their interests during negotiations with the new authorities in Syria. Since 2012, the Kurdish region, primarily governed by the Democratic Union Party (PYD), has been managed by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a crucial ally for the U.S. in combating the Islamic State.
Turkey perceives these groups as extensions of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), classified as a terrorist organization, and has vowed to dismantle their presence should they fail to disarm. Meanwhile, the Kurdish National Council (ENKS) has expressed dissent towards the PYD’s control and maintains affiliations with Turkey and the Kurdistan Democratic Party in Iraq.
A recent meeting between the ENKS and the SDF, which involved U.S.-led coalition officials, aimed to forge a unified Kurdish stance amidst the evolving political landscape in Syria. ENKS President Sulaiman Oso highlighted the need to address internal disputes before presenting a unified front in Damascus, citing prior incidences of targeted actions against their members by local forces.
Oso noted that although the discussions were candid, mistrust has exacerbated between the factions. He asserted the necessity of resolving such internal conflicts before any collective delegation can engage with the new political authorities in Damascus. The U.S., U.K., and France have advocated for an agreement, emphasizing the protection of Kurdish rights within the framework of Syria’s transformation.
Saleh Muslim of the PYD underscored that a cohesive Kurdish delegation should also incorporate the diverse local populations, including Arab and Christian representatives. However, the ENKS representatives currently in Damascus are reportedly engaging community leaders rather than the power-wielding authorities, primarily influenced by the rebel faction Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Political observers warn that the delays in reconciliation could jeopardize Kurdish representation and their demands in the newly formed political order. Zara Saleh, a Kurdish analyst, remarked that a unified and robust Kurdish presence in Damascus is vital to ensuring their rights are not overlooked by the newly emergent Islamist authorities, who have previously expressed skepticism about Kurds. Although HTS officials have promised to safeguard Kurdish rights, their refusal to accept federalism poses a challenge to Kurdish ambitions for autonomy in a post-Assad Syria.
The Kurdish factions are urged to clarify their positions and incorporate influential leaders from various sectors to enhance their representation. Stakeholders, including the United States, are called upon to support intra-Kurdish dialogue and unity as a means to effectively advocate for Kurdish interests in the reshaping of Syria’s political landscape.
The Syrian conflict has led to significant changes in governance, particularly in the Kurdish regions, which have been predominantly controlled by the SDF and PYD since 2012. The ongoing struggle for a unified Kurdish representation in post-Assad Syria is crucial, as it reflects the need to articulate and protect Kurdish rights amidst shifting political dynamics. Turkish opposition to Kurdish autonomy further complicates the situation, as does the influence of HTS, which currently dominates much of the region’s political landscape.
The quest for a unified Kurdish delegation highlights a critical juncture in post-Assad Syria where internal divisions and external pressures could significantly impact the political representation of Kurds. The urgency for cooperation and resolution of conflicts among Kurdish factions is paramount in ensuring their voices are included in discussions about the country’s future. Balancing their diverse community interests will be essential for a formidable presence in any negotiations with new authorities in Damascus.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
