In a joint display of solidarity, the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) and the People’s Protection Units (YPG) reaffirmed their dedication to the ideals of the Rojava Revolution on its twelfth anniversary. Both entities highlighted the revolution’s impact on local and regional stability, emphasising unity and resistance.
On 19 July 2012, Kurdish self-defence forces, organised under the YPG, seized control of Kobani (Kobanê), marking the start of a transformative movement in North and East Syria amid the Syrian civil war. This pivotal event led to the establishment of an autonomous region in January 2014, driven by the Democratic Union Party (PYD). Over the ensuing years, the Rojava Revolution has catalysed profound changes, including local governance reforms, enhanced roles for women, and the recognition of ethnic and cultural identities, alongside efforts to overhaul education and healthcare systems.
The AANES celebrated the anniversary by underscoring the revolution’s significance. Their statement expressed congratulations to the people, honoured the martyrs, and reaffirmed a commitment to the revolution’s principles. “On the twelfth anniversary of the 19 July Revolution, we extend our congratulations to all the people of our nation, remembering all the martyrs of our people’s revolution and the revolution of freedom,” the statement read. It continued, “We reaffirm our full commitment to the path of 19 July and its blessed principles, renewing our vow to follow in the footsteps of our martyrs until their aspirations are fulfilled.”
The administration stressed the unity of the region’s diverse communities, stating, “Our people, with the unity of its components and through their free revolution, will achieve the building of a democratic Syria, reclaim its occupied territories, and ensure a dignified return for our displaced people.” They highlighted the revolution’s aim to defeat terrorism and promote a model of true popular democracy, ensuring identity and belonging for all components without infringement.
In a parallel statement, the General Command of the YPG also commemorated the revolution’s anniversary, celebrating its broader regional impact. “We proudly and respectfully congratulate our people, the families of the martyrs, and the entire world on the 12th anniversary of the Rojava Revolution,” the YPG statement began. It continued, “This day is no longer just a day marking the independence and resistance of our people; it has become the beginning of a new phase in the history of Kurdistan and the Middle East in general.”
The YPG paid homage to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives against ISIS and other hostile forces. “Their resistance against ISIS, Turkish occupation, and other hostile forces not only liberated the peoples of Syria and Rojava but also had a significant impact on global security,” the statement asserted. They highlighted the revolution’s influence on global democracy, direct democracy principles, gender equality, and environmentalism, noting, “The Rojava Revolution…has become a beacon of hope for freedom not only for the Kurdish people but for all the peoples of the Middle East.”
Both statements stressed the revolution’s success in fostering a multicultural and multilingual society, promoting women’s roles in politics and society, and achieving peaceful coexistence among diverse groups. They emphasised the importance of continued struggle for peace, equality, and justice, calling for global support for the revolution’s ideals.
Meanwhile, the Kurdistan Communities Union (KCK) also celebrated the twelfth anniversary of the Rojava Revolution, highlighting achievements in democratic governance and women’s liberation. The KCK reaffirmed its commitment to the revolution’s principles and calls for continued solidarity against external threats.
The KCK’s Executive Council Co-Presidency issued a statement praising the revolution’s origins in Kobani and its subsequent impact on North and East Syria. They saluted the diverse communities involved and honoured the martyrs who defended the revolution. The statement emphasised the revolution’s development into a democratic system, promoting equality and women’s liberation.
The KCK also remembered the international volunteers who fought for the revolution, noting their significant contributions. They condemned Turkey’s ongoing attacks and stressed the importance of a democratic solution for Syria through dialogue and negotiation.
The statement concluded with a call for continued support and solidarity with the Rojava Revolution, emphasising its significance as a global model for freedom and democracy.
The commemoration of the revolution’s twelfth anniversary reflects a shared vision of a democratic and united Syria, resilient in the face of external threats and committed to the principles of freedom and equality.
