In a visible sign of international solidarity, the first convoy of the ‘People’s Caravan to Defend Humanity’ set off today from Hanover. In light of the ongoing attacks on North and East Syria, the initiative aims to break the international silence and reach the besieged city of Kobanê.
“We are currently witnessing the largest attacks on Rojava, on North and East Syria – and we will not leave this unanswered,” said spokeswoman Gesa Jonasson shortly before the caravan set off. The mood at the starting point was determined. Flags, banners, and slogans such as “Jin, Jiyan, Azadî” and “Long live international solidarity” dominated the scene.
The caravan is a response to a call from the autonomous administration in Rojava. It is directed against the ongoing attacks by troops and jihadist militias under the command of the so-called Syrian transitional government and its ally Turkey – attacks that are specifically targeting the civilian population and the achievements of the Rojava revolution. Behind the caravan is a diverse group of people and organizations whose goal is “not to leave the Kurdish people alone and to defend the revolutionary achievements in North and East Syria: grassroots democracy, gender equality, religious diversity.”
The initiative condemns not only the attacks on Rojava itself, but also the political backing provided by European governments. Particularly harsh criticism is directed at the EU’s rapprochement with the Syrian transitional government under Ahmed al-Sharaa. “Today, we are setting out from all corners of Europe. There will be many of us—and we will be loud,” Jonasson emphasized. “We are joining forces from different cities. In doing so, we are joining all those who are also setting out: from Bakur, from Bashur, to defend Rojava. We are part of the protests in Rojhilat and Iran. And we say clearly and unequivocally: We will not allow the women’s revolution in North and East Syria to be attacked. We will defend it.”
Stops on the way to Kobanê
Today’s start in Hanover is part of a cross-border mobilization. A second convoy has started in Cologne at the same time. Stops with activities are planned in cities such as Kassel, Frankfurt, Freiburg, Zurich, Berlin, Leipzig, and Munich. The routes are to converge in Vienna before continuing on to Kobanê via Turkey. Information about the caravan can be found on the website https://peoplescaravan.tem.li/language/en/the-caravan/
[album=21912]