The 6th Congress of the Democratic Autonomous Council of Shengal, held yesterday under the slogan “Unity, Freedom and Solution,” was successfully concluded with the participation of 300 delegates and guests. During the congress, the political and social situation, efforts to develop a democratic society, ways to resolve issues with the Iraqi state, and strengthening the struggle for securing the fundamental rights of the Yazidi community and Shengal were comprehensively evaluated. A new administration of the Shengal People’s Council was also elected, and a two-year core action plan was finalized. The final declaration and plan of the congress were announced to the public today.
The final declaration includes the following:
“The Shengal Democratic Autonomous Council held its 6th congress on March 28, 2026, at a historic and critical time when the Middle East is going through an intense war, with the participation of 250 delegates, representatives of political parties, and religious and social figures. The congress was described by participants as a strong stance against genocidal campaigns and a new will to build a free life. Political assessments drew attention to the ongoing Third World War, which has continued in different forms since the 1990s and is currently intensifying through tensions between the US–Israel bloc and Iran.
Democratic Society is the only path to salvation
The congress expressed that capitalist modernity, shaped by male dominance, nationalism, and religious mentality, has fragmented societies and driven the world into an unmanageable crisis. It emphasized that this crisis can only be overcome through a paradigm based on women’s freedom, democratic society, and ecology. The “Peace and Democratic Society Initiative” launched on February 27, 2025, was highlighted as the only path to salvation for the Yazidis and the peoples of the Middle East.
Work to be conducted under Shengal People’s Council
The congress critically assessed the work of the past two years. It stated that the Yazidi community has preserved its existence through self-defense and organized structures in defiance of attacks, thwarting plans of annihilation. One of the most significant achievements was the resettlement of Yazidi families returning from camps. However, shortcomings in education, awareness-raising, and organization will be addressed by strengthening the commune system.
A major structural change was made in the council system. From now on, all work will be conducted under the name of the Shengal People’s Council, consisting of 51 members. The Executive Council was abolished and replaced by a new leadership composed of two co-chairs and their deputies.
Freedom of Yazidis is linked to the physical freedom of Öcalan
Women and youths were identified as fundamental forces in the congress. It was emphasized that violence against women can only be overcome through stronger organization. It was decided that women and youths will play a leading role in building a democratic society.
It was also stated that the existence and freedom of the Yazidis are linked to the physical freedom of Leader Apo (Abdullah Öcalan). As long as he is not free, the threat of genocide will continue. Therefore, it was decided to strengthen the organized struggle for his freedom in Shengal.
A “Yazidi Unity Congress” will be established to unite all Yazidis
One of the most strategic decisions of the congress was the establishment of a “Yazidi Unity Congress.” The aim is to unite all Yazidis scattered across different parts of the world under a common umbrella within two years.
In the field of diplomacy, it was criticized that Iraq and other states have still not recognized the genocide against the Yazidis. It was stated that efforts will be intensified to ensure the recognition of the genocide and the constitutional and international recognition of Yazidi rights.
The importance of self-defense was emphasized, stating that no living being can survive without defending itself. It was underlined that the Yazidi community will further strengthen itself militarily, culturally, and politically.
Democratic integration
Finally, a political solution project based on democratic integration with Iraq was addressed. Emphasizing the presence of different beliefs and peoples in Iraq, it was stated that recognizing Yazidi rights within the framework of the “Democratic Nation” is key to the country’s democratization and stability.
The congress concluded successfully with the election of a new leadership and the goal of building a free life in Shengal.
Two-year action plan
The two-year action plan includes:
– The physical freedom of Leader Apo will be at the center of all activities.
– Communes will be established in all villages.
– International efforts will be carried out for the recognition of the Yazidi genocide of August 3, 2014.
– A Yazidi Unity Congress will be established.
– Relations will be developed with the Iraqi government and international actors for a democratic solution.
– A democratic integration project for Shengal will be prepared.
– Social unity, political consensus, and self-defense efforts will be strengthened.
– Educational and organizational work based on women’s freedom will be expanded.
– Projects for ecological development and the protection of Shengal’s environment will be launched.”
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