MSDFinal Statement of the Founding Conference of the Syrian Democratic Path
The General Secretariat of the Syrian Democratic Path issued the final statement on convening its founding conference, held in Brussels, Belgium. The statement emphasized a series of principles aimed at establishing a new path for a democratic Syria.
The statement is as follows:
Statement on the Founding Conference of the Syrian Democratic Path
The Syrian Democratic Path concluded its founding conference, which was held over two days, on October 25 and 26, 2024.
A total of 128 delegates, attending both in person and virtually, participated in the conference, representing democratic powers in Syria and abroad. The participants emphasized the importance of establishing a democratic regime for Syria’s future. This will be achieved through an inclusive political engagement, uniting all Syrians.
The conference was held amidst extremely dangerous circumstances. As the country suffers from fragmentation due to external and military interventions, internal conflicts, and multiple occupations that continue to threaten its national unity. For decades, the country has endured an authoritarian regime, characterized by repression and the exploitation of sectarian divisions. This regime seeks to maintain its power through military force, without any basis of legitimacy.
When the peaceful Syrian revolution erupted in the spring of 2011, the Syrian regime responded with brutal repression. The proliferation of weapons and the rise of Islamist ideologies empowered terrorist groups like the Islamic State (ISIS) and al-Nusra Front. Additionally, Islamist militias aligned with regional powers have gained dominance.
In light of international and regional developments, we face a dangerous situation due to international tensions in multiple regions.
Several key factors contribute to these tensions.
The ongoing Russian war on Ukraine, continuous Turkish attacks on northeastern Syria, the bloody conflict in Gaza and Lebanon, and the unresolved tensions between Iran and Israel are significant contributors. Furthermore, the potential outcomes of the upcoming U.S. elections must also be considered. All these matters compel us to reconsider our policies and align them with these developments.
To establish a democratic path for Syria, the conference reaffirms the following principles, which we will strive to achieve:
– The unity of Syria, both land and people, is fundamental for any political solution. Also, it must serve as the foundation for all negotiation processes.
– Achieving a political transition through the United Nations and international resolutions, particularly UN Security Council Resolution 2254. This involves expanding the representation of Syrians and strengthening their influence by reaching a political settlement among all parties.
– Affirming the Syrian national identity that embraces ethnic identities.
– Women’s empowerment is key to democratic progress. We must work towards gender equality and ensure that women play a crucial role in shaping Syria’s future.
– Youth must be empowered to shape Syria’s future. Their participation in decision-making is essential.
– Establishing a decentralized regime, agreed upon by all Syrian parties, to ensure the rights of all communities within the Syrian society.
– We advocate for a secular state that respects all religions and beliefs.
– A new constitution for the Syrian Republic must be based on international human rights standards, with the Geneva Convention of 1949 serving as a cornerstone.
– Democracy is vital for the Syria’s political regime, which must be inclusive of its diverse population.
– We emphasize the need for a resolution to the Kurdish issue in accordance with international law and the safeguarding of the rights of other ethnic minorities.
Based on the aforementioned principles, the Syrian democratic path calls for the intensifying efforts to unite all Syrian democrats. Additionally, it urges for holding a comprehensive national conference under international and regional auspices. This conference should bring together all political and democratic powers committed to building a just and prosperous Syria. Consequently, our path will be committed to achieving a democratic future for Syria. We will engage in constructive dialogues with all Syrian parties based on mutual respect and inclusivity.
Following extensive discussions and amendments, the conference adopted a comprehensive set of documents outlining the political vision, principles, and roadmap for Syria’s future.
The members of the General Secretariat of the Syrian Democratic Path were elected to oversee the implementation of decisions and the action plan. Goals of the conference will be achieved after organizing the affairs of the Syrian Democratic Path.
Long live a free, united, democratic, and decentralized Syria!
Glory to the all martyrs!
Freedom to all prisoners of conscience!
October 26, 2024
The General Secretariat of the Syrian Democratic Path
