Ilham Ahmed: Political Pluralism vital for rebuilding Syria
HASAKAH, Syria (North Press) – Ilham Ahmed, head of the External Relations Department of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), said on Thursday that political pluralism is “an essential requirement for building a modern and inclusive Syria,” warning that the persistence of a unilateral mindset will only deepen crises and obstruct political solutions.
Ahmed made her remarks during the “Conference of Communities” held in the city of Hasakah, northeast Syria, which brought together representatives of various ethnic, religious, and political groups from across the region.
She stressed the importance of including the communities of North and East Syria in any constitutional or negotiation process, noting that “the participation of the region’s representatives forms the core of the political and constitutional process.”
Ahmed also called for the protection of women’s rights to be enshrined in the new Syrian constitution, emphasizing that “the time has come to end all forms of oppression against women and to ensure their active participation in political life.”
According to her, guaranteeing equal political representation and safeguarding freedoms for all communities will help create the conditions for a sustainable settlement to the country’s prolonged conflict. She noted that ignoring the demands of local components would lead to further deterioration and division.
The “Conference of Communities” is part of ongoing efforts in AANES-held areas to promote dialogue and coordination among diverse communities, aiming to strengthen inclusive governance and reinforce local stability. The region, administered by the AANES and secured by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has been relatively shielded from some of the broader instability affecting other parts of Syria, where various armed groups continue to operate.
Participants at the conference discussed a range of issues, including political participation, constitutional guarantees, women’s rights, and mechanisms to enhance cooperation among local councils. Organizers said the event sought to present a unified vision from the region’s communities for Syria’s future.
Ahmed reiterated that the voices of the local population must be “the foundation of any lasting political solution” and warned that sidelining them could undermine any peace process.