MSDThe Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) has been closely monitoring the proceedings of the so-called “National Dialogue Conference” held in Damascus on Tuesday, February 25, 2025.
The SDC had previously expressed its disapproval of the representation format of the preparatory committee, as well as its orientations and declarations. The convening of this conference is a continuation of the approach of exclusion and marginalization that has long governed the country’s political scene for decades.
The absence of fair representation for Syrian components, both national and societal, along with political representation, raises serious concerns. The haste in convening the conference without providing transparent foundations and genuine guarantees confirms that this meeting does not address the critical issues and future of Syria seriously. It appears to be merely a formal procedure that does not contribute to the necessary solutions or national partnership in building Syria.
The Damascus authority’s reliance on the old, failed methods employed by the al-Assad regime is concerning. These methods involve the dominance of political decision-making and the exclusion of effective national components and powers. Such an approach will only deepen divisions within the country and obstruct any chance for the success of the transitional process.
What is required now is to abandon these authoritarian methods. A meaningful, genuine, and comprehensive dialogue is essential to establish a balanced transitional phase that reflects the will of the Syrian people. This must occur away from political monopolization and decision-making exclusivity. The goal should be to build a democratic, pluralistic, and decentralized state based on equal citizenship.
February 26, 2025
Syrian Democratic Council
