News Center- The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in North and East Syria held a panel in Hasakah, a city in the Jazira Canton of North and East Syria to discuss the recent developments in Syria, the relation between the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) and Damascus, and the role of civil society in the future of Syria with the participation of more than 50 civil society organizations.

Îlham Ehmed, Co-chair of the Executive Council of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, made the opening speech of the panel. “The need for change in Syria continues,” she said. “Now, we are in a transitional phase and this phase is critical for the future of the new Syria.”

‘Women’s participation in politics is important’

Îlham Ehmed pointed to the new administration in Damascus and said, “The international community attaches importance to the recent developments in Syria and aims to see a new Syria, embracing its multiculturalism and diversity. Therefore, women’s participation in politics and society is particularly important. This is the fundamental demand of all Syrians.” Îlham Ehmed also said that the visits of the delegates from all countries to the region “will contribute to the reconstruction of Syria. Humanitarian and security crises continue in all provinces of Syria. Syria needs a real change. Active political change is possible with a new constitution, democratic elections monitored by the UN and the participation of all ethnic groups in Syria. No committee or assembly that includes all people of Syria has been formed although it is very important.”

‘Attacks make security situation more complex’

In her speech, Îlham Ehmed also commented on the conference on Syria to be held in Paris on February 13. “At the conference, many issues easing sanctions imposed on Syria and starting the reconstruction process will be discussed,” she said, drawing attention to the ongoing attacks of the Turkish state and Turkish-backed factions on North and East Syria, especially on the Tishreen Dam and the rural areas of Manbij. “These attacks make the security situation in North and East Syria more complex.”

‘A decentralized system is the best system for Syria’

A decentralized system is the best system for Syria, Îlham Ehmed emphasized, adding: “We want to build a strong Syria through a single army and active politics and diplomacy. Building such a Syria is only possible by having a decentralized system. Insisting on a new centralized system would only mean creating a new dictator.”

 Îlham Ehmed called on all civil society organizations to play an active role in order to contribute to the peace and stability process. Civil society organizations should play an active role to solve social and financial problems suffered by Syria.”