2/4 Kurds in Syria and Rojava: Political Parties, Armed Groups, and Leadership

By Martin Aslan

The “Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria” (DAANES), commonly referred to as Rojava, is a self-governing political entity in northern and eastern Syria. Established in 2014, it emerged from the Syrian Civil War as a de facto autonomous region controlled by Kurdish-led forces, though it also includes Arabs, Syriacs, and other ethnic and religious minorities, with the city of Qamishli as its capital. Îlham Ehmed and Mansur Selum (Arab), both PYD members, are co-chairing DAANES since 2018.

Political parties

The “Democratic Union Party” (PYD) is a Kurdish political party in Syria that plays a leading role in the governance of the DAANES where he’s the main political force. Founded in 2003, the PYD follows the ideology of Democratic Confederalism, inspired by Abdullah Öcalan. Salih Muslim and Asya Abdullah are co-chairing the PYD.

The “Movement for a Democratic Society” (TEV-DEM) is a political coalition and civil society movement in Rojava. It was established in 2011 as an umbrella organization to promote Democratic Confederalism, self-governance, and grassroots democracy in the region. TEV-DEM played a key role in the formation of the DAANES and remains a central force in its governance, close to the PYD.

The “Syrian Democratic Council” (SDC) is the political wing of the SDF and serves as the governing body of the DAANES. Established in 2015, the SDC seeks to create a democratic, decentralized, and pluralistic Syria, advocating for self-governance, ethnic inclusivity, and gender equality. He is composed of 43 seats and the “Federal Executive Council” is responsible for overseeing the implementation of policies drawn up by the SDC.

Armed groups

The “Syrian Democratic Forces” (SDF) is a multi-ethnic military alliance in North and East Syria, formed in 2015, primarily led by the YPG, and serving as the main defense force of the DAANES.

The “People's Defense Units” (YPG) is a Kurdish-led militia serving as the primary military force of Rojava and military wing of the PYD. Formed in 2011, it played a crucial role in the Syrian Civil War and became internationally recognized for its leading role in defeating ISIS. The “Women's Protection Units” (YPJ) is the women's branch of the YPG, founded in 2013. Turkey designates the PYD and YPG/PYJ as affiliates of the PKK.

Key political figure

Mazloum Abdi (1967-) is a prominent Kurdish military commander and political leader, best known for his leadership of the SDF. After spending some twenty years in the ranks of the PKK (~1990-2011), he joined the YPG in 2011 and is now a key figure in Rojava.

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