An agreement signed between Ahmed al-Sharaa, the interim president of Syria, and Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s history, potentially reshaping the political landscape. This landmark deal not only aims to solidify the SDF’s participation in the Syrian political process but also seeks to integrate the Kurdish-led autonomous region in eastern Syria into the broader governance framework of the country. In an exclusive interview, Salih Muslim, spokesperson for the Democratic Union Party (PYD), discussed the implications and anticipated outcomes of this agreement, highlighting its importance for the future of governance in Syria.
| Article Subheadings |
|---|
| 1) Historic significance of the agreement |
| 2) Clarification on governance structure |
| 3) The role of Abdullah Öcalan’s call for peace |
| 4) Addressing violence and discrimination |
| 5) Commitment to women’s rights and governance |
Historic significance of the agreement
On March 10, 2025, the agreement was formalized between Ahmed al-Sharaa and Mazloum Abdi, consisting of eight comprehensive articles. Salih Muslim described this agreement as not just a political document but a potential blueprint for reconstructing a democratic framework within Syria. This characterization of the agreement as “historic” underscores its anticipated role in creating a new political environment that includes diverse community representation. Muslim emphasized that the success of this agreement hinges on the genuine implementation of its articles, envisioning that if enacted effectively, it would lead to a redefined Syria influencing both local dynamics and international perspectives.
The plan includes establishing specialized committees at various levels to oversee the multifaceted aspects of governance, including military integration and economic management. This strategy is designed to ensure that the voices of communities represented by the SDF are acknowledged and reflected in the nation’s governance. Muslim’s advocacy for this agreement portrays a significant shift in Syrian politics, suggesting a movement away from the previous authoritative structures towards a more inclusive government framework.
Clarification on governance structure
Despite the optimism surrounding the agreement, there remains public uncertainty regarding the future governance structure of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES). Muslim sought to clarify that while the agreement lays a foundation, there are no immediate decisions involving federalism or full autonomy. Instead, he highlighted that future governance will evolve through negotiations influenced by the drafting of a constitution. The core intention is to foster radical democracy aimed at empowering local administrations while moving away from a centralized authority that has historically characterized governance in Syria.
Muslim’s comments reflected an understanding that the negotiation process will involve all parties and aim for consensus on governance issues. He reiterated the commitment to a decentralized governance model, which has been termed variously as “reflexive” governance or “loose federalism” by different stakeholders. However, he maintained that the exact nomenclature of the system is less important than the participatory and democratic mechanisms that will be established through collective agreements.
The role of Abdullah Öcalan’s call for peace
The recent publicized call for peace by PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan on February 27, 2025, brought forth questions about its implications for the ongoing negotiations between the SDF and the Syrian administration. Muslim cautioned against oversimplifying the relationship between Öcalan’s declarations and the contents of the agreement, asserting that these dialogues have historic roots stemming from the turbulence following the downfall of the previous regime in Syria. The SDF’s current negotiations with the Damascus administration, he noted, should not be directly linked to Öcalan’s statements, although the call does resonate with the Kurdish community’s ongoing struggle.
Muslim acknowledged that developments in Turkey, particularly with respect to the Kurdish issue, may influence the region’s political climate. He expressed a sense of cautious optimism that positive shifts within Turkey could potentially mitigate the aggressiveness often displayed towards Syrian Kurdish groups. Nevertheless, he maintained that the SDF’s strategies would remain focused on securing their rights and representation, irrespective of external political dynamics.
Addressing violence and discrimination
The question of violence in the coastal regions of Syria, particularly instances of massacres and discrimination against Alawite communities, poses considerable challenges for the agreements’ implementation. Muslim pointed out that recent events have deeply shocked and affected all Syrians, including the SDF representatives. The agreement aims to confront the remnants of the former Baath regime’s influence, calling for a united front against violent acts that threaten the country’s stability.
The concerns surrounding community safety and the handling of conflicts will dictate the practical steps taken under the agreement. The commitment to a ceasefire across Syria reflects a recognition of the urgent need to address these issues, as well as a desire to mitigate the potential for sectarian strife fueled by historical grievances. It’s clear that the parties involved are tasked with ensuring a comprehensive approach to fostering peace while addressing the complex realities on the ground.
Commitment to women’s rights and governance
Muslim passionately expressed the importance of maintaining the progress achieved by women in governance and societal structures within North and East Syria. He emphasized that the women-centered, pluralistic nature of the region’s governance efforts is invaluable. “We will not give up our gains,” he stated, stressing that the co-chair system and women’s institutions are integral to the new governance structure envisioned under the agreement.
The challenges posed by the presence of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group within the Damascus administration add further complexity to the integration process. However, Muslim conveyed a sense of determination regarding the women’s movement in North and East Syria, indicating that their achievements may, in time, influence the overall structure of Syrian governance. The potential for this transformative influence hinges on sustained advocacy and collective efforts towards broader acceptance of gender equity in governance.
| No. | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | The agreement opens pathways for Kurdish representation in Syrian governance. |
| 2 | The structure of governance is to be defined through ongoing negotiations. |
| 3 | Öcalan’s peace call has contextual relevance but is not directly linked to the agreement’s formation. |
| 4 | The need to address violence and protect various communities is acknowledged in the agreement. |
| 5 | Protection and advancement of women’s rights remain prioritized in the new governance framework. |
Summary
The agreement between Ahmed al-Sharaa and Mazloum Abdi represents a significant turning point for Syria, paving the way for enhanced political participation and representation of diverse communities. As various parties work toward the practical implementation of this agreement, questions surrounding governance, rights, and safety will be paramount. The commitment to fostering democratic values and inclusivity signifies a new chapter for the region, with potential ramifications that extend far beyond Syria’s borders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What is the main aim of the recent agreement in Syria?
The primary aim is to ensure the participation of the communities represented by the Syrian Democratic Forces in the political process, as well as to integrate the Kurdish-led autonomous region into the Syrian governance structure.
Question: How is the governance structure expected to evolve following the agreement?
The governance structure will evolve through negotiations, with a focus on decentralized governance that values local administration and community representation.
Question: What is the significance of women’s rights in the context of this agreement?
Women’s rights are prioritized within the new governance framework, with commitments to maintaining and promoting the achievements made by women in North and East Syria in governance and societal roles.
