23/10/2024

Syrian Democratic Council hosts symposium on national identity in Raqqa

RAQQA, North and East Syria — The Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) organized a dialogue symposium titled “The Concept of National Identity” in the city of Raqqa, North and East Syria, bringing together political activists, academics, civil society representatives, and members of women’s movements from the Raqqa Canton. The event aimed to explore the meaning of national identity in Syria and its impact on the country’s future.

The symposium was structured around two main discussions. In the first, lawyer Awas al-Khalil emphasized that the current identity imposed on Syrians fails to represent all components of society, contributing to a persistent state of instability in the country.

The second discussion focused on national identity from the perspective of the region’s diverse populations. Participants highlighted the need for a national identity that embodies the values of social justice, equality, and inclusivity for all citizens.

In addition to examining the proper definition of identity, the symposium analyzed various interpretations of Syrian national identity — considering the views of the Syrian regime, the Syrian National Coalition, Turkish-backed militant factions, and the Syrian Democratic Council’s vision for this concept and its practical application.

At the conclusion of the event, several key recommendations were made, calling for the consolidation of a comprehensive national identity. These included promoting a culture of national belonging through education and media, incorporating relevant materials into school curricula, and encouraging dialogue seminars among different political and social groups to foster a unified national identity across Syria.