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DAMASCUS — In a significant political move, Syria’s Kurdish-led administration has once again called for a decentralized and democratic system of governance that would preserve a measure of its de facto autonomy. This latest appeal comes just days after the Syrian government in Damascus reiterated its staunch opposition to any form of decentralization or federalization.
The Kurdish administration, which governs large parts of northeastern Syria—including key oil and gas fields—issued a statement on Sunday emphasizing the need for a “pluralistic democratic system, social justice, gender equality, and a constitution that guarantees the rights of all components” of Syrian society.
“Syrians have suffered for decades from a centralized system that monopolized power and wealth, suppressed local will, and dragged the country into successive crises,” the statement read.
“Today, we aspire to be effective partners in building a new Syria, a decentralized Syria that embraces all its people and guarantees their rights equally.”
A Stalled Accord
This statement follows renewed talks between Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)—the Kurdish administration’s military arm—and Syria’s interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa. The two sides first struck a deal in March to integrate Kurdish institutions into the state framework. However, implementation has been stalled due to persistent disagreements.
On Wednesday, Abdi and Al-Sharaa met again, this time with the presence of a U.S. envoy, to attempt to revive the process. But the Syrian regime swiftly doubled down on its centralist stance, rejecting “any form of division” and demanding that SDF fighters be incorporated into the Syrian army.
Kurdish Stakes and U.S. Involvement
The Kurdish-led forces played a critical role in the defeat of the Islamic State (Daesh) in Syria, with strong backing from the U.S.-led coalition. Their influence and autonomy in the north, however, remain a point of contention.
U.S. Special Envoy to Syria and Ambassador to Turkiye, Tom Barrack, acknowledged the contributions of the SDF in the war against ISIS but underlined the political limitations they now face.
“The only future path for them is Damascus,” Barrack told Kurdistan 24 in a recent interview, hinting at the international community’s limited appetite for Kurdish statehood or enduring autonomy.
What’s at Stake?
The Kurdish administration’s push for decentralization poses a broader question about the future structure of the Syrian state. Will Syria adopt a more inclusive, decentralized model that acknowledges the multi-ethnic and multi-religious nature of its population, or will the Assad regime succeed in restoring its pre-war centralized authority?
For now, Kurdish leaders are signaling they want to remain part of Syria—but on new terms.
Their control over territory rich in oil and gas resources gives them leverage. However, with the regime in Damascus feeling increasingly emboldened, especially with shifting regional dynamics and limited international pressure, the window for compromise may be narrowing.
Conclusion
The Kurdish administration’s renewed call for decentralization reflects long-standing grievances and a desire for lasting reform. Whether Damascus is willing to accommodate those demands—or continues to resist them—will shape Syria’s post-war political landscape for years to come.