Kurdish communities worldwide mobilised on 29 January, staging protests in front of Turkish consulates across multiple countries, in response to Turkey’s intensified attacks on northern Syria (Rojava).
The European Kurdish Democratic Societies Congress (KCDK-E), the largest and most organised societal umbrella organisation of the Kurdish diaspora, led the mobilisation, calling for a strong response to Turkey’s recent escalation of airstrikes targeting civilians and key infrastructure, such as the Tishreen Dam.
Protests took place in Germany (Essen, Hamburg, Dortmund), the UK (London), Canada (Toronto), the Netherlands and Belgium (Brussels).
According to the KCDK-E, these demonstrations aimed to expose Turkey’s war crimes and its deliberate attacks on civilians in Rojava, which violate international law.
In recent weeks, Turkey’s military has launched a series of attacks on civilian areas in Rojava, killing over 30 people and damaging vital infrastructure. The Tishreen Dam, which supplies electricity and water to millions, has been repeatedly targeted, raising fears of a catastrophic humanitarian crisis.
Protesters denounced the international community’s silence, warning that failure to act emboldens Turkey to continue its war crimes.
KCDK-E’s statement urged: “The world must take action. Rojava represents a democratic and pluralistic alternative in the Middle East, and Turkey’s attacks are aimed at destroying this model. We call on all democratic forces to stand against these war crimes.”
Protesters emphasised that Rojava’s struggle is not just a Kurdish issue but a battle for democracy and human rights. The mobilisation is part of a wider international effort to challenge Turkey’s actions and demand accountability.
