A decade after the Kurdish-led People’s Protection Units (YPG) and Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) forces repelled a prolonged ISIS siege, Kobane (Kobanê) remains a symbol of resilience and hope. Marking the 10th anniversary of its liberation, international delegations, notably the Progressive International, have gathered to commemorate this milestone and highlight the escalating challenges the region faces.
“Today, delegates from the Progressive International land in northeast Syria to commemorate the liberation of Kobanî and accompany a new diplomatic process that may bring critical relief to its peoples.”
Statement from the Observatory of the @ProgIntl.https://t.co/EWZHvf8dkZ
— Progressive International (@ProgIntl) January 24, 2025
The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) extended invitations to various groups to raise awareness about the increasing threats. In a statement, the Progressive International emphasised their commitment:
“We are here to honour Kobane’s sacrifice and to bring international attention to a fragile diplomatic process that may bring peace to its peoples.”
The Progressive International is a global network uniting progressive activists and organisations to mobilise for social justice and democracy worldwide. Their presence in Kobane underscores the international solidarity with the region’s ongoing struggles.
The AANES has called upon the international community to stand in solidarity with Kobane and condemn Turkey’s escalating aggression. Delegates emphasised the need for immediate action to protect civilians and preserve the democratic experiment in Rojava.
Turkey’s recent military actions have drawn widespread condemnation, with critics arguing that these operations violate international law and destabilise the region. For Kobane (Kobanê), the stakes are existential — a fight not only for survival but for the ideals of democracy, equality, and coexistence that it represents.
