In the heart of northeast Syria, Kurds are determined to safeguard the cultural rights they have arduously secured over the years of conflict. For decades, the Kurdish population faced marginalization under the Assad regime. Many were denied citizenship, and their identity was suppressed as they were often incorrectly labeled as Arabs. But, with the unfolding transition following Assad's decline, the Kurds see a unique opportunity to solidify their cultural autonomy.
Today, Kurdish schools teach the native language, children proudly carry Kurdish names, and the new year festival, Nowruz, is celebrated openly. For a population recognized as one of the largest ethnic groups without a state, these are significant strides toward self-awareness and rights recognition that they are keen to preserve. Yet, the future of these achievements depends on the decisions of Syria's emerging government and the resolution of ongoing tensions with Turkish-backed rebel factions.
In recent clashes between Kurdish forces and the Syrian National Army (SNA) allies of Turkey, numerous lives have been lost, leaving thousands displaced. Amira Ali, a resident of Hassakeh, reflects on these struggles, emphasizing the unyielding spirit of the Kurdish people in maintaining their newfound freedom. Her sentiments echo across the region, where local governance under the 'Asayish' security forces reinforces a sense of Kurdish self-determination.
Since the Assad regime's pullout in 2011, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have controlled about a quarter of Syria. Their administration, often referred to as 'Rojava Kurdistan,' operates semi-autonomously, aiming for decentralized governance rather than complete independence. Notably, Mazloum Abdi, commander of the U.S.-backed SDF, advocates for a secular and egalitarian Syrian state where minority rights are upheld, contrasting sharply with the identity politics of the previous era.
The Kurds' pivotal role in combating the Islamic State has further bolstered their position. The SDF's military prowess led to the fall of the extremists' last stronghold in Baghouz in 2019, but Turkey views the SDF as linked to the PKK, a designated terror group. This geopolitical tension has hard consequences; Turkey's numerous incursions into northern Syria since 2016 have displaced countless civilians.
As the political landscape shifts, negotiations between Kurdish leaders and the new Syrian government are crucial. Both sides send optimistic signals about cooperation to form a just nation, although the path to peace is fraught with challenges. Women like Amina Hussein, mourning at the SDF’s Martyrs Cemetery, underline the sacrifices made during this protracted conflict.
For Kurdish families displaced multiple times by war, like Goulieh Abdu and Elham Horo, finding stability remains a distant hope. Many seek refuge in temporary shelters, hoping for an enduring solution. Back in Tel Rifaat, the scars of conflict persist, with Arab returnees and Kurdish departures marking the town's troubled history. Former residents like Muhammad Kabso recount returning to destroyed homes, illustrating the deep-seated grievances that need reconciliation.
Ultimately, the Kurds' pursuit of cultural recognition and autonomy in Syria encapsulates a broader struggle for rights and equality. As Syria rebuilds, efforts are underway to ensure all ethnic groups, including Kurds, enjoy peace and equal treatment.
