The downfall of Assad marks a moment of celebration, signaling the end of one of the world’s most oppressive regimes. Finally, there is hope for a new and democratic Syria.
For democracy to truly flourish, Syria must embrace its diversity through both words and actions. Additionally, it is crucial to put an end to Turkey’s and Israel’s infringements on Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The surrounding countries, EU, and the USA have a significant role to play in this process.
The Western world’s grasp of the situation in Syria and the broader Middle East will once again face scrutiny. Missteps could lead to a repeat of the experiences in Iran and Afghanistan, where the religious and extremist forces promise of democracy and inclusiveness ended up with the opposite.
The key actor in Syria, the terrorist-designated group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), is currently articulating messages that resonate with popular sentiment. However, the true implementation of these promises remains to be seen.
To avoid any missteps by the international community, it is essential to involve democratic and long-term allies in the process. Thus, the Kurdish-led Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) is a vital participant.
For many years, the Kurds have sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of freedom and democracy in the region. Their efforts have also played a crucial role in eliminating the threat of ISIS on the streets of the EU.
While EU leaders have often shied away from taking responsibility for their citizens horrors as foreign fighters in Syria, including in the Kurdish region, the AANES has been instrumental in keeping those offenders incarcerated. Turkey’s fear of the Kurds and its war against the AANES could strengthen terrorist groups – a reality that Turkey is well aware of.
It is unacceptable for such behavior to arise from a NATO member and an EU candidate country. With 23 of the EU’s 27 member states also part of NATO, a united front and coordinated pressure would make Turkey understand that there are limits to what can be tolerated.
Supporting local self-government in the Kurdish-led region in Syria, including the return of displaced Kurdish citizens from towns occupied by Turkey, is crucial in this context.
Dialogue among all segments of Syrian society, particularly the democratic factions, is essential. Additionally, it is crucial to halt the violations of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity by Turkey, Israel, or any other foreign actor, as this will be pivotal for the country's future.
