Rojava Leaders Meet with Kurdish Diaspora in Paris Amidst Shifting Syrian Dynamics

Paris, France – On Saturday, February 28, 2026, Ilham Ahmed, Co-Chair of the Department of External Relations of the Autonomous Administration of Rojava, and Rohilat Afrin, Commander-in-Chief of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), convened with members of the Kurdish diaspora in Paris. The meeting, hosted by the Kurdish Democratic Council in France (CDK-F), focused on the future of Rojava following a recent agreement with the Syrian government and the preservation of revolutionary achievements, particularly concerning women’s rights.

Context of the Meeting

The meeting took place at the CDK-F offices (16 rue d’Enghien, Paris 10th) and drew a large crowd eager to engage with the Rojava leaders. Rohilat Afrin emphasized the importance of “intergenerational” support from the Kurdish diaspora in Europe. The discussions centered on navigating the complexities of the January 29 agreement with Damascus and safeguarding the gains made during the Rojava Revolution.

The Rojava Revolution and Autonomous Administration

The Rojava Revolution, beginning in 2012, represents a political and military upheaval in northern Syria, also known as Western Kurdistan. Led by the Democratic Union Party (PYD) and a coalition of Kurdish, Arab, Assyrian, and Turkmen groups, the movement has aimed to establish an autonomous region in northeastern Syria. This region, the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), has pursued a vision of democratic confederalism, emphasizing direct democracy, gender equality, and eco-socialism [1].

The January 29 Agreement and its Implications

The agreement reached on January 29 with the Syrian government marks a significant development in the ongoing Syrian conflict. While details remain somewhat opaque, the agreement appears to aim for a political resolution that acknowledges the autonomy of Rojava within a unified Syria. However, concerns remain regarding the implementation of the agreement and the potential impact on the region’s self-governance and the rights of its diverse population [2].

The Role of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ)

The YPJ, under the command of Rohilat Afrin, has been a central force in defending Rojava against various threats, including the Islamic State. The YPJ’s commitment to women’s rights and gender equality has been a defining characteristic of the Rojava Revolution. Continued support for the YPJ remains a key concern for the Kurdish diaspora and the AANES [3].

Ongoing Challenges

Despite the recent agreement, Rojava continues to face numerous challenges, including the threat of Turkish military intervention and the need to address internal political and economic issues. The meeting in Paris provided a platform for Rojava’s leaders to engage with the diaspora and garner support for navigating these challenges and securing a sustainable future for the region.

Key Takeaways

• Ilham Ahmed and Rohilat Afrin met with the Kurdish diaspora in Paris to discuss the future of Rojava.
• The meeting focused on the implications of the January 29 agreement with the Syrian government.
• Preserving women’s rights and the achievements of the Rojava Revolution remain central concerns.
• The YPJ continues to play a vital role in defending Rojava.