MSDThe Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) extends its warmest congratulations to the Syrian people across the country, especially those in northeast Syria. This occasion marks the seventh anniversary of the foundation of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES). This pioneering experience has affirmed the determination of the region’s diverse communities to manage their own affairs. It has also helped build an inclusive democratic model that reflects the aspirations of Syrians for freedom, dignity, and stability.
The AANES experience began as a collaborative initiative involving all the region’s communities. These include Kurds, Arabs, Syriacs, Assyrians, Armenians, Turkmens, Circassians, and other ethnic and religious groups. This initiative represented a historic step toward fostering coexistence and preserving diversity. It also served as a political and social response to the challenges of the time. It filled the governance vacuum by establishing a local system that reflects the will of the people and embodies their aspirations.
Following the significant sacrifices made by the people of NE Syria in confronting terrorist organizations, particularly the Islamic State (ISIS), the AANES emerged as an institutional framework. It has proven its ability to protect the community and manage its affairs. It has also worked to uphold the principles of democracy, participation, and gender equality, becoming a unique model in Syria that can serve as a foundation for any comprehensive national solution.
Over the course of seven years, the AANES has achieved tangible accomplishments in strengthening stability. It has established civil, service, judicial, and administrative institutions and ensured broad participation of women and youth in decision-making positions. Simultaneously, it has continued its efforts to combat terrorism and counter extremism, establishing itself as a cornerstone in the struggle to safeguard Syria, its security, and its future.
As it commemorates this anniversary, the SDC reaffirms its steadfast commitment to continuing the struggle for a comprehensive Syrian-led political solution. This solution should be based on democratic and decentralized principles and guarantee equality and justice for all citizens. In this context, the SDC calls upon all Syrian national forces to unite and engage in serious dialogue to build a new Syria — one that is pluralistic, democratic, secure, and just.
September 5, 2025
Syrian Democratic Council
