The Syrian government on Sunday firmly rejected a Kurdish conference’s call to establish a “decentralized” political system in Syria, warning that any move toward federalism without national consensus would threaten the country’s unity. The response came after more than 400 Kurdish representatives met in the northeastern city of Qamishli and called for democratic reforms guaranteeing Kurdish rights.
“We clearly reject any attempts to impose a divisive reality or establish separate entities under the guise of federalism or self-administration without comprehensive national consensus,” read a statement from the office of the Syrian leader.
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The government accused the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) of undermining state institutions in areas under their control, restricting access to public services, and misusing national resources. “The SDF leadership cannot monopolize the decision-making process in the northeastern region of Syria,” it added.
The conference, titled “Unity and Consensus in Western Kurdistan,” concluded Saturday by demanding constitutional protections for Kurdish rights, adherence to international human rights conventions, and the full inclusion of women in governance. Organizers also announced plans to form a joint Kurdish delegation to negotiate with the Syrian government and other political forces.
The Syrian Democratic Forces, backed by the United States during the fight against the Islamic State group, now control large swaths of northeast Syria. Tensions have risen as Kurdish groups push for political recognition in a country devastated by more than a decade of civil war.
The Syrian government stressed that preserving national unity remains a “red line” that must not be crossed.