Badr Jamous's vision of federalism and the political solutions for Syria's future
Welat TV - Erbil
In light of the complexity of the Syrian political scene and the growing internal and external challenges facing the Syrian opposition, the Syrian Negotiating Committee plays a pivotal role, striving to achieve a fair and comprehensive political resolution to the Syrian issue in alignment with international resolutions, notably Resolution 2254.
Welat TV conducted an interview with Dr. Badr Jamous, the head of the Syrian Negotiating Commission, in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region. He held a consultative meeting with representatives of Syrian political parties and civil society elites with the objective of reinforcing relationships and creating partnerships among the various components of the Syrian opposition, as well as discussing the most pressing unresolved issues.
In this interview, Jamous openly addresses the internal discussions within the Commission, shedding light on the challenges that impede consensus among the various political components of the body, which include organizational disputes and contrasting political visions. He further articulates his vision for the future of the negotiation process with the Syrian regime. He discussed the efforts aimed at rekindling international momentum with the Syrian issue, notwithstanding the increasing challenges on the international stage.
Through his conversation, Jamous reveals the nature of relations with international powers, the possibilities of expanding the Commission to include new components, the Commission's stance on the SDF, and ways to support the Syrian people's demands for freedom and democracy. Watch this interview, which tackles significant issues regarding the future of Syria and the aspirations of the Syrian opposition for a holistic political transition that meets the expectations of Syrians for a democratic and inclusive state that provides them with security, dignity, and the right to contribute to the construction of their future.
The following text captures the interview held by Welat TV with Dr. Badr Jamous, the head of the Syrian Negotiations Committee:
*Today, you met with representatives from several political parties and civil society organizations in Erbil. What was the focus of this meeting, and how would you evaluate it?
**Badr Jamous: Good evening, I am pleased to be in Erbil to engage with my Syrian brothers, including Kurds, Arabs, Syriacs, and Assyrians, who participated in today's consultative meeting. This meeting, organized by the Negotiating Committee, aims to foster connections, partnerships, and collaborative work with various Syrian actors, elites, political parties, blocs, and civil society organizations.
*What was the meeting about?
**Badr Jamous: As you know, the Syrian Negotiation Commission serves a crucial role in the political and negotiation processes. Therefore, the discussion revolved around the political situation in Syria and the region, the political process, and the negotiation process. We discussed where Syria is heading and where the political process is going, what the role of the Syrians, elites, communities, and various actors is, and how we can strengthen our Syrian front to make it more robust. It is imperative that we secure backing from all relevant capitals for a political solution and the implementation of the international resolutions, as we see the only way for Syria's unity and the unity of the people other than through the implementation of these resolutions.
*Before addressing the negotiations with the regime, I wish to inquire about the Syrian Negotiation Commission. We often hear about discord among the various frameworks within the Commission. Is it accurate to say that such disagreements exist?
**Badr Jamous: As with all institutions, there are undoubtedly varying perspectives within the Syrian Negotiation Commission. However, there is a consensus on the necessity of a political solution, as well as on the Riyadh statement endorsed by the seven components representing the Commission. These components include the National Coalition, the National Coordination Committee, the military factions, the Cairo Platform, the Independents Bloc, the Kurdish National Council, and the Moscow Platform, all of which have committed to the Riyadh 2 statement.
*The Moscow and Cairo platforms. Don't they disagree?
**Badr Jamous: The Moscow and Cairo platforms exist, and we attended the meeting last week in Geneva. They are present at all the meetings of the Negotiation Commission. Yes, there are some internal disagreements.
*What are these disagreements about? Is it political or organizational?
**Badr Jamous: The disagreements are organizational, not political. There are democratic frameworks in place where decisions are made through voting and elections within the Negotiation Commission. There are parties that do not accept the democratic process, meaning that if they do not agree with the decisions, they want to halt the voting or block the decision. This is not the correct approach. We believe in democracy and that consensus is a general approach, but no party can obstruct the work of the Negotiation Commission, especially at a difficult and complex stage and a difficult political scene, because of organizational issues or imposing conditions on the Commission.
*What are these organizational issues that are being disputed and with whom?
**Badr Jamous: Similar to other political blocs, the disagreements primarily revolve around the allocation of quotas. However, there is a general agreement that any decision made within the Negotiation Commission requires a vote that surpasses 75 percent, along with the consensus of the majority of the involved components that endorse the decision within the body.
However, I want to emphasize that the absence does not represent a platform; instead, it pertains to individuals within the platforms who seek to impose their perspective on the entire Negotiation Commission. This approach is unacceptable, particularly when the direction within the Committee is such that a minority of 10% or 15% cannot alter the decision-making process. While they possess the right to voice their objections, the overall progress must continue, as we have international responsibilities and obligations, along with our participation in international forums, which is what the Committee is doing.
*Is the Kurdish National Council part of these disagreements?
**Badr Jamous: No, the Kurdish National Council has been appreciated since it joined the Negotiation Commission and it always tries to reach consensus within the body there are no problems with it and it always calls for consensus and supports the decisions within the Negotiation Commission.
*Is there potential for the Negotiation Commission to be expanded?
**Badr Jamous: There has been a lot of promotion of the idea that the opposition needs to expand and add more components through conferences, but it is not possible to bring 25 million Syrian citizens to join it. Ultimately, numerous conferences have been held since the formation of the Syrian National Council, followed by its expansion, the formation of the Coalition, and subsequent expansions of the first and second Negotiation Commission. It is unsustainable to proceed in this manner.
The primary goal of representation within the Commission is to ensure the most significant presence of the National Coalition, encompassing all its components, the Coordination Commission with its various elements, the Kurdish National Council in its entirety, the military factions, and the Cairo Platform, the Moscow Platform, and the independents on the Syrian political landscape.
This is the most significant representation that can be achieved, and there are instances when certain individuals may be absent. However, our role is not to represent ourselves but to embody the aspirations of the Syrian populace in their pursuit of a political resolution that has garnered consensus among all Syrians, including both the opposition and those residing in regime-controlled territories. It is asserted that the solution aligns with Resolution 2254; nevertheless, it is the regime that hinders the realization of this political solution, as it is aware that any such resolution will come at its expense, and that is why it works to block the political solution.
*Is there a possibility of the SDC or the SDF joining the Negotiation Commission, and has this been requested of you?
**Badr Jamous: This issue is not open for discussion because it is ultimately the decision of the components within the Commission, and the expansion of the Commission requires an international conference because the Commission was formed through the Riyadh Conference, so it requires a new conference to add any component.
Adding any component requires understanding who this component is and what its representation is, and it also needs to have a Syrian consensus before there can be an international consensus on it.
We all know that the SDF has many questions among Syrians and there is skepticism about who is behind it and who they are aligned with.
*Is this skepticism among Syrians or Turks?
**Badr Jamous: No, with the Syrians, the components are Syrian, not all the members of the Negotiation Commission are Turkish or aligned with Turkey, and there have been numerous attempts by some components of the Negotiating Body to meet, communicate and negotiate with the SDF, including the Kurdish National Council, the Coordination Committee, the Moscow Platform and members of the Cairo Platform.
The majority of them returned with a negative stance towards the SDF it has not fulfilled its promises, there is a significant influence of the PKK within the SDF, and negative actions towards Syrians in northeastern Syria, including child recruitment and abuse against politicians and civil society organizations.
All the policies of the SDF have been abusive and have been one of the reasons why the Syrians have not been open to them.
*You mentioned the Kurdish National Council within the Negotiation Commission, yet there are other components in Syria. Why are they not represented in the Commission?
**Badr Jamous: The current representation is based on the Riyadh Conference. It is true that there are various components, parties, and blocs that are not included in the Negotiation Commission. We aim to embody the objectives of the Syrian revolution and Resolution 2254. This will provide an opportunity for all components and political movements to contribute to the establishment of a new constitution and conduct democratic elections under the auspices of the United Nations. Ensuring that everyone gets their due right.
As I said, there is no single opposition in the whole world that represents the whole people. The opposition since its inception has been seeking democratic change in Syria through political action and international resolutions, and we are not seeking to take a share of the regime and push the other components out of the game, but we are seeking all components to take their right in the future Syria.
*Where do the negotiations with the regime currently stand?
**Badr Jamous: Since 2014, the regime has consistently undermined all efforts for negotiation and international meetings aimed at achieving a political resolution. Either avoids participation or, when compelled to attend, it seeks to sabotage the process. The regime remains convinced that a military and security solution is the most effective means of maintaining its hold on power, showing little regard for the suffering of the Syrian populace, whether it be including their deaths in camps, refugee nations, or at sea.
The regime's primary focus is solely on preserving its authority. Ultimately, our negotiations are not limited to discussion with the regime; we are engaged with the United Nations, various nations, and the Syrian people to advocate in international forums for the Syrian cause. It is imperative to convey that without a political resolution, there will be no viable solution, and Syria will remain trapped in an unending cycle as long as the regime continues its current policies.
*Are there any signs of upcoming meetings?
**Badr Jamous: We had meetings in New York and Geneva a week ago, and we are endeavoring to have an international conference on Syria.
*Where and When?
**Badr Jamous: We continue our efforts to engage with various nations and international actors, emphasizing that the region is in peril, facing numerous conflicts, and is on the brink of further escalation. The Syrian populace bears the brunt of these crises. Our concern extends to all Syrians, not solely those aligned with the opposition; we are particularly worried about our people, whether they reside in opposition-held areas or under the regime's control. Many lives are being lost, as the regime recklessly sends young individuals to their deaths merely to maintain its hold on power. We are working for Syria for all Syrians and ensuring they remain in their homeland, avoiding displacement and the dire conditions of refugee camps.
Our commitment is to safeguard the Syrian people. These are the messages we wish to convey to our fellow citizens across all Syrian cities, including Latakia, Deraa, Damascus, Homs, Qamishli, Deir Ez-zour, Raqqa, Idlib, and the liberated regions. We must consider their well-being and the future of Syria.
*Do you believe that the international community is not interested in solving the Syrian crisis?
**Badr Jamous: I believe that the international community has shown significant interest in the Syrian issue; however, there are always pressing issues that take precedence. Historically, we have witnessed various phases, and currently, conflicts are occurring in Ukraine, Sudan, and elsewhere. Nations prioritize the most critical file, and if they are unable to resolve it, they often shift their focus to another, more pressing matter, such as there is now a focus on solving the issues of Captagon, terrorism, or refugees.
The presence of multiple forces and nations within Syria complicates the situation further. Ongoing battles on Syrian territory, coupled with the regime's decision to open borders to various countries and militias, have transformed the nation into a battlefield for settling scores and international disputes, with the local population bearing the brunt of these conflicts.
Consequently, finding a resolution to the Syrian crisis across all regions remains a formidable challenge.
We also extend our respect to the people of Suwayda for their continued peaceful struggle over the past year and two months, as they advocate for the implementation of international resolution 2254.
*What type of governmental system do you foresee for a future in Syria?
**Badr Jamous: Our vision is well-defined; we aspire to establish a democratic and civil state in accordance with international resolutions. We advocate for the creation of a new constitution and encourage Syrians to collaboratively develop a new social contract. It is essential for all Syrians to engage in shaping the future of Syria, as sustainable peace cannot be achieved without this involvement.
The constitution is a fundamental aspect of our efforts within the Commission, alongside the establishment of a transitional governing body. A safe and neutral environment is crucial, as it is a prerequisite for conducting a referendum on the constitution.
*Do you accept federalism in Syria?
**Badr Jamous:This question is not addressed to me but to the components as a whole.
*Are you the leader of the Negotiating Committee?
**Badr Jamous: I serve as a representative of the Negotiation Commission and its recommendations. This matter is currently under discussion and included in various documents. There are differing viewpoints among the parties involved, with some in agreement, others expressing desires, and some opposing. Ultimately, this is a negotiation among the Syrian people themselves, who must engage in dialogue to establish the system they aspire to, one that provides optimal solutions for all Syrians to effectively govern their nation.
*what about your personal position, Dr, Badr Jamous, on this matter?
**Badr Jamous: I do not possess a personal stance on this issue, as I represent the organization I am affiliated with. My views are articulated during the meetings of the Negotiation Committee, and once a consensus is reached, my position aligns with that of the Committee.
The Negotiation Commission addresses various subjects, such as the designation of the state, the religion of the head of state, federalism, and both administrative and political decentralization.
These matters are deliberated within the frameworks of the opposition and the Negotiation Commission.
There have been agreements and understandings among the involved parties, which is a positive development that was not achievable prior to 2011, as we were unable to engage in such discussions among ourselves as Syrians.
*You mentioned the state's name and the regime's emphasis on Syria's Arab identity. What is your perspective on this matter?
**Badr Jamous: This issue is among the ten topics currently under discussion within the Negotiation Commission, aimed at achieving consensus among various components regarding the new constitution, including the state's name.
There are proposals from one component asserting that the authority to change the state's name lies not with the components but with the future parliament or through a referendum involving the Syrian populace to decide the name of the Syrian state.
Conversely, other factions, particularly the Kurdish National Council, argue that this matter requires a political consensus that must be reached collaboratively. Additionally, some components oppose making this decision on behalf of the Syrian people.
These negotiations are being conducted within a constructive framework to facilitate agreements that ensure both non-Arab and Arab Syrians feel represented and valued in their homeland. It is essential for all parties to collaborate in the reconstruction of Syria, avoiding the pitfalls of shifting from one issue to another.
*Numerous violations are occurring in Afrin and Sari Kaniye; what is your perspective on this matter?
**Badr Jamous: The issue of violations is not confined to Afrin and Sari Kanye; it is a broader problem that will persist in the absence of a structured system, effective governance, centralized authority, a robust judiciary, and a viable political resolution. Regrettably, these crises are likely to endure. However, we categorically condemn all forms of violations, whether they take place in Afrin, Sari Kaniye, or elsewhere. Our focus in Syria extends beyond Kurdish regions; there are also violations occurring in Izaz and throughout northeastern Syria, perpetrated by various organizations and the regime. Without a political solution, these violations will continue unabated.
The coalition and the interim government are diligently working to implement the laws and ensure that violators are held accountable, with numerous cases being pursued in Izaz and other locations.
I have personally intervened in certain instances; however, it is important to note that many of the cases we investigate are based on media reports rather than factual evidence. While I acknowledge the existence of some legitimate cases, it is evident that many are overstated.
In instances where violations are substantiated, the offenders have been expelled, imprisoned, and held responsible for their actions. Our Commission firmly opposes any violations against our citizens and is committed to defending their rights in all international forums.
We will confront anyone who perpetrates attacks against any Syrian citizen, regardless of whether they are in our territories, areas controlled by the regime, or regions governed by the SDF. We did not initiate the revolution to allow for such violations to occur.
*What is your perspective on the current situation in Lebanon and Palestine?
**Badr Jamous: We are the descendants of a revolution, having emerged with a peaceful movement advocating for human rights and a dignified existence. We unequivocally oppose the killing of civilians, whether they are our brothers in Palestine or Lebanon; we stand against any actions targeting non-combatants.
Regarding the militias that the regime has summoned to Syria, which have caused harm to the Syrian populace, such as Hezbollah, these groups are now facing the consequences of their actions against the Syrian people.
We categorically reject the targeting of civilians and advocate for their protection.
This principle embodies our beliefs, our ethical standards, and our revolutionary ideals. The Syrian regime is responsible for the emergence and mobilization of these militias in the region, thereby transforming Syria into a battleground of international conflict, and it must be held accountable for this situation.
The actions of Israel against the Palestinian people are indefensible.
The Palestinian struggle is a legitimate one, as they have been defending their homeland since 1948. They possess the right to establish their own state, and we support the vision of a two-state solution, which necessitates the withdrawal of the occupying forces.
We believe that with the presence of these numerous militias on Syrian soil, the regime is complicating the situation in Syria and the Syrian people will pay the price. You have engaged with representatives from various nations regarding the issue of refugees.
*Could you elaborate on your actions and the proposals you made for the refugees?
**Badr Jamous: Our most recent meeting took place last week in Geneva, where we urged the international community to ensure the protection of refugees. There are hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees who are being compelled to return to Syria due to the ongoing conflict, raising significant concerns for their safety and well-being. Numerous international reports indicate that many of these individuals have been arrested. We have called for humanitarian assistance and protective measures, as well as the establishment of a UN committee, in which we would participate, to oversee and safeguard these individuals. Our efforts on this matter continue, and I currently have a delegation from New York engaged in discussions with the United Nations and members of the Security Council to advocate for the rights of refugees, detainees, and human rights issues.
* There are more than 250,000 Syrian Kurdish refugees in Iraqi Kurdistan, don't you think they are marginalized by the Syrian opposition?
**Badr Jamous: You say so Maybe they have a right, but there is the Kurdish National Council, which is an essential part of the negotiating body, and the Assyrian organization are our representatives here.
*You have conducted 170 meetings as a Negotiation Commission with representatives of the Syrian populace. Is a single meeting in Erbil and Iraqi Kurdistan sufficient?
**Badr Jamous: Erbil was selected as one of the locations for our meetings, which have included both online and in-person formats, such as today's session. Initially, the meeting was scheduled for the fifth month; however, it was postponed due to the elections and related obligations in Erbil. Today marks our presence here, and it is neither the first nor the last occasion for such gatherings. We have previously attended and currently have two members of the negotiating body in Erbil. We are committed to facilitating more ongoing meetings, as those in Erbil represent not only the Kurdish community but all segments of the population. Our goal is to engage with them, listen to their concerns, and serve as their voice.
*I have one final inquiry. As the head of the Negotiation Commission, you claim to represent all segments of the Syrian populace. Do you possess any knowledge of the Kurdish language or have you made efforts to learn it?
**Badr Jamous: When I engage with my Kurdish colleagues, we occasionally use a few Kurdish terms. However, due to our constant travel, we lack the opportunity to spend time with our families to acquire a new language. Nevertheless, we certainly pick up some words from our Kurdish brothers and friends, as it is our responsibility. We aspire for a future Syria where both Arabic and Kurdish are spoken, allowing other communities to maintain their cultural and linguistic heritage. This vision is reflected in our opposition documents, which state that the language of each majority group in a Syrian region will serve as a second official language alongside Arabic. This represents a cultural asset for our nation, and we are committed to preserving and defending it.
