Syriac Union Party Co-Chair Barsom: Syrian regime sowed division, Administration of North and East Syria offers hope

NORTH AND EAST SYRIA — Sanharib Barsom, Co-Chair of the Syriac Union Party (SUP), has accused the previous Syrian regime of deliberately fostering discord and division among the nation’s communities to solidify its rule. In a candid interview with Alyoum TV, Barsom drew a sharp contrast between the past and present, commending the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES) for its commitment to coexistence and inclusivity.

“The former regime thrived on fragmenting Syria’s social fabric,” Barsom asserted. “In contrast, the [Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria] has demonstrated tangible progress in fostering unity — not just in theory, but in practice. This is why all communities rally behind it. It represents them authentically through the Syrian Democratic Forces [SDF] and a shared vision of coexistence.”

A Political Landscape Transformed

Barsom emphasized the transformative impact of political pluralism under DAARNES. “Recognizing political diversity as a basic human right marks a stark departure from the regime’s authoritarianism,” he said. Highlighting the presence of parties representing all communities in the autonomous region, he described this development as “a positive and necessary evolution for Syria’s future.”

The transitional Syrian government led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Barsom noted, could gain broader acceptance if it adheres to its three-month transitional mandate. He stressed that this interim period would lay the groundwork for broader collaboration, calling it a critical phase in the roadmap to rebuilding Syria.

Uncertainty Surrounds National Dialogue Conference

Barsom voiced concern about the upcoming National Dialogue Conference, which remains clouded by ambiguity. “The preparation process and the selection of invitees are controlled by a single dominant party, leaving others sidelined,” he remarked. Barsom urged the inclusion of all political, ethnic, and democratic actors, emphasizing the need for collective ownership in shaping Syria’s future.

A Vision for the Syriac-Assyrian Community

Barsom reaffirmed the SUP’s commitment to amplifying the voice of Syria’s Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) population — a community with deep historical roots in the region but long marginalized under previous regimes. “The era of exclusion is over,” he declared. “This is a time for building bridges, fostering mutual respect, and strengthening ties among Syria’s diverse peoples.”

Barsom closed with a call to action, urging the nation to embrace unity as a cornerstone for a new, inclusive Syria. “The path forward lies in championing coexistence and the shared values that bind us together. That is the true strength of Syria’s mosaic.”

Collaboration for a Decentralized Future

Barsom also affirmed that the SUP, in collaboration with the Assyrian Democratic Organization (ADO), has been working for the past three years to craft a shared vision for establishing a decentralized, secular, and civil state that guarantees the rights of all components.

In an interview with Rudaw TV, Barsom highlighted the complexities confronting Syria’s diverse communities, particularly those facing ongoing challenges regarding their future. He expressed concerns about the emerging authority in Daramsuq (Damascus), rooted in strict Islamist ideologies, and the implications for Syria’s future state.

He revealed plans for an upcoming meeting between a joint delegation of Syriac–Assyrian parties and the current administration in Daramsuq. The meeting, expected next week, aims to discuss the future of minority groups and secure their rights within any potential political settlement.

Barsom also reflected on the challenges faced by Christian communities over the past decade, highlighting the devastating impact of attacks by Islamic State (ISIS) militants and Turkish-backed armed groups. These events have significantly reduced the Christian population, threatening their historic presence in Syria.

Barsom praised the recent visit of French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot to Syria, during which he met with Christian religious leaders in Daramsuq. This visit was seen as a positive step toward international recognition of the plight of minority groups in the country.