On sunday, February 9th, 2025, the co-chair of foreign Relations Department, Ms. Ilham Ahmad, participated in a dialouge seminar that was orginized by the alliance of Civil Sociaty Organization in North and East (NES) Syria. they addressed the political development in Syria, on international and regional levels after the fall of the Syrian regime, and the specific political developments in NES, and its relations with Damascus, and the role of civil society in the current and upcoming stages
Ms. Ilham Ahmed said that the event that took place in Syria was historical, and that everyone is following what is happening on the Syrian ground. The process of change is still ongoing, and the outlines of the new Syria have not yet become clear.
“Ahmed” went on to say that the international community is focused on the Syrian issue and is working towards a new, pluralistic, and diverse Syria that includes everyone, with a key role for women in both society and governance. This is a goal shared by all Syrians.
“Ahmed” also expressed hope that diplomatic visits from regional and European countries would help correct the course towards rebuilding Syria, making it a place that represents all Syrians and fulfills their aspirations.
“Ahmed” added that there is a new authority in Damascus, but the on-the-ground situation has not seen any significant change, and the humanitarian and security crisis continues in various Syrian provinces.
“Ahmed” emphasized that Syria is still in urgent need of active political, social, and cultural institutions capable of representing Syrians and meeting their diverse needs.
“Ahmed” continued by saying that we do not blame the new administration, as it is still in its early stages and needs resources and human capacity to support it. Syria requires a genuine transitional process, the drafting of a new constitution, and a democratic electoral process under the supervision of UN, with the participation of all Syrians.
“Ahmed” clarified that attacks by the Turkish occupation and its mercenaries are still ongoing on NES regions, particularly on the Tishrin Dam, Manbij, Qarqozak Bridge, and Ain Issa, which only complicates the security situation in North and East Syria.
“Ahmed” emphasized that we want a strong Syria with a unified army, political system, and diplomacy, but with a decentralized system that grants broad powers to the regions. Insisting on a new centralized system means reproducing dictatorship, and this is something we reject.
“Ahmed” stressed the vital role of active civil society organizations in the peace and stability process, especially given the failure of political forces to address the social and economic issues.
The seminar concluded with an open dialogue between Ms. Ilham Ahmed, the co-chair of the Foreign Relations Department, and representatives of civil society organizations. The discussion focused on the challenges facing these organizations, the role of women in building the new Syria, and the unity of the Kurdish front to face future challenges.
