Rojava at Risk: EU Action Needed for Peace and Democracy
STATEMENT BY THE EUROPEAN LEFT ON ROJAVA AND NORTH-EAST SYRIA
The Party of the European Left expresses grave concern over the military attacks against the Kurdish Rojava and across North-East Syria. The collapse of ceasefire efforts and the intensification of military operations against Kurdish-led democratic forces threaten civilian lives, regional stability and any prospect of a just peace in Syria.
The Kurdish movement and democratic self-administration in North and East Syria have consistently pursued dialogue and an inclusive political solution. These forces played a decisive role in the defeat of ISIS and continue to represent one of the few pluralistic and gender-equal political projects in the region. Today, however, they are facing military aggression, forced displacement and political marginalisation, while authoritarian and jihadist actors are increasingly normalised.
We strongly criticise the European Union’s incoherent approach. Political engagement and financial support extended to the authorities in Damascus, while attacks on civilians and democratic structures continue, undermine international law and the EU’s own stated commitment to human rights and peace. Stability cannot be built through appeasement or silence.
The Party of the European Left calls on the European Commission, the European External Action Service and the High Representative / Vice-President to act urgently. We demand an immediate halt to political and financial support to the Damascus authorities, a clear demand for an enforceable ceasefire, and meaningful engagement with the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria as a legitimate political actor.
We further call for the situation in Rojava to be placed on the agenda of the upcoming Extraordinary European Council. The European Union must choose a policy that defends democracy, protects civilians and recognises Kurdish rights. Silence and inaction make the EU complicit.