SDF integration into Syrian state marks milestone but key tensions unresolved, experts say

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have completed their integration into Syria's state institutions, marking a significant milestone for Damascus, according to Kurdish leader Mazloum Abdi. The integration process, which included the military, security, and administrative institutions, was finalized in Qamishli. The move was a result of an agreement between Damascus and the SDF in January, mediated by Washington and Paris, and endorsed by Ankara.

The deal aimed to end hostilities between Kurdish forces and the Syrian authorities, establish a roadmap for incorporating the northeastern region into state institutions, and provide specific linguistic and cultural rights, as well as political representation.

President Ahmad Al Shara issued a decree in January offering concessions to foster goodwill with Syria's Kurdish population, including recognizing Nowruz as a national holiday, granting Kurdish as a national language, and providing Syrian nationality to previously stateless Kurds. However, while the integration is an important achievement in consolidating state authority after years of conflict, Kurdish aspirations for meaningful autonomy remain unresolved.

Experts note that hopes for self-rule are now seen as more likely to survive only at the municipal rather than provincial level.

Despite progress, relations between Damascus and Kurdish groups are expected to remain complicated, with both sides working to break down mutual mistrust. The deal raises concerns among advocates of women's rights, as Kurdish fighters, known for their women's units, have faced pushback from the government. Notably, the government has denied the integration of women's units as a whole and does not allow integration on an individual basis.

The Kurdish-led administration previously governed much of northeastern Syria and established its own military, security, and civilian institutions with U.S. backing during the war against ISIS.