Khadija Al-Jarf: Recognition of Political Parties Is a Democratic Necessity
Amid the recent political developments and changes taking place in Syria, the existence of political parties in the region is considered essential for establishing the principle of pluralism.
Nour Al-Ahmad
Raqqa – Syria is witnessing a state of confusion and fluctuations on the political scene, marking a pivotal stage in its history and in shaping its new future. This phase will determine the fundamental pillars of Syria’s reconstruction as negotiations continue among the concerned parties.
Negotiations between the delegation of the Autonomous Administration and political parties with the Syrian Interim Government are seeking official, legal, and legitimate recognition of the multiplicity of political parties that have come to represent all Syrian components and the voice of the people in their pursuit of pluralism.
Consolidating the Principle of Democracy
Khadija Al-Jarf, spokesperson for the Women’s Council of the Future Syria Party in Raqqa, described the current situation in Syria as a historic phase, emphasizing the need for official recognition of political parties in the region, especially given the vital role of women in consolidating the democratic principle for the Syrian people.
She explained that the formation of political parties in the region was a necessary and urgent response, especially after 14 years of crisis:
“Political parties became the political foundation for the North and East Syria region, where a great revolution began — the July 19 Revolution — breaking the political stagnation that had long characterized the region’s modern history.”
Many parties have been established, including the Green Democratic Party, the Leftist Party, the Democratic Party, and the Future Syria Party. According to Al-Jarf, their goal is to strengthen the concept of democracy in all its forms, to serve as the voice of the people against oppression and tyranny, and to convey their demands or objections to any law imposed by the ruling authority.
She noted that political party programs should be based on the principle of ensuring a decent life at all levels and fair representation in the political arena:
“The formation of political parties contributed to solidifying the principles of democracy and pluralism. We witnessed the downfall of the Baath regime, which prohibited any political representation outside its control. The so-called pluralism back then was purely symbolic and served only the state’s agenda. In contrast, today’s political parties embody the people’s demands. The Future Syria Party has always upheld the principles of pluralism and decentralization in building a new Syria that embraces all components and communities — the true foundation of the Democratic Nation project’s success in the region.”
Regarding women’s roles in politics, she stated: “Previously, there was no fair political representation for women. Their participation was marginalized through intimidation, persecution, and arbitrary arrests. But today, women play a leading role in the political sphere, hold key positions such as co-chairs, and have proven their political vision and leadership. As women in political parties, we have worked to organize and raise political awareness among women.”
“Negotiations Are a Positive and Important Step in Shaping Syria’s Future”
The fall of the Baathist regime has brought many crucial developments to the political landscape in Syria. Meetings and negotiations are ongoing between representatives of the Autonomous Administration, political and military parties, and the Interim Government in Damascus.
Al-Jarf added: “We have recently opened several offices in Daraa, Aleppo, and Deir ez-Zor. We are working diligently to entrench the principles of democracy and pluralism for all components across Syria’s geography, not just in the North and East. As Syrians, we have endured various forms of oppression and made countless sacrifices and martyrs — among them the martyred Hevrin Khalaf, who became a symbol of inspiration for all Syrian women.”
Khadija Al-Jarf expressed her hope that the presence of all political parties will play a fundamental and pivotal role in the future of Syria — one that upholds justice and equality and represents the voice of all Syrian communities, in order to build a Syria of freedom and dignity.