More than 500 people attended a panel discussion at the ESK Social Center, organized by Internazionale magazine, cartoonist Zerocalcare, the Kurdistan Information Office, and the Rete Kurdistan solidarity committees. As part of the event, a fundraising campaign was conducted to support displaced people in Rojava.
The event began with opening remarks and moderation by Francesca Gnetti, Middle East editor of Internazionale, and Zerocalcare.
A general overview of the civil war in Syria since 2011 was presented, followed by evaluations of the social and women’s revolution in Rojava. Attention was also drawn to the fight against ISIS and the resistance of Kobanê.
The discussion addressed the recent attacks that first began in Aleppo and then extended to Rojava, as well as attempts to eliminate the revolution. Participants emphasized the importance of the Rojava experience for the Middle East in terms of ethnic, religious, and cultural identities, as well as women’s freedom and equality.
The agreement reached between the transitional government of Syria and the SDF (Syrian Democratic Forces) was also discussed. While it was stressed that the agreement is significant for halting clashes and achieving a ceasefire, it was noted that its provisions contain broad language and that implementation may face difficulties, particularly given the transitional government’s jihadist past.
Nevertheless, it was underlined that the integration of the SDF into the Syrian army, the institutionalization of Kurdish language and culture, and the establishment of associations, universities, cooperatives, and especially women’s institutions constitute important achievements. It was stated that the Rojava experience could serve as a model for many peoples, particularly in the Middle East.
Leave a Reply