University of Duhok Hosts Symposium on the Syrian Conflict and Its Impact on the Kurdistan Region

Academic Experts Discuss Regional Stability and Political Dynamics

As part of its 2025 academic activities, the Center for Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution at the University of Duhok (UOD) organised a specialised symposium examining the ongoing conflict in Syria and its implications for the Kurdistan Region. The event gathered leading scholars, political analysts, and researchers who explored the complexities of the crisis, highlighting geopolitical challenges, power shifts, and Kurdish political strategies in Syria.

The symposium, held on February 4, 2025, at UOD, brought together distinguished academics who provided expert insights into the ever-evolving Syrian conflict. Discussions focused on the power struggles involving Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham, the role of international actors, and the future of Kurdish governance in Rojava.

Key Themes and Expert Analyses

1. The Syrian Conflict: Geopolitical Uncertainty and Shifting Alliances

The first session addressed the ongoing instability in Syria, particularly the challenges facing Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham’s governance and the broader regional implications. Experts examined:

• Internal divisions within Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham and their impact on the group’s long-term control.
• The evolving political landscape in Damascus and its influence on Syria’s future governance.
• The role of international actors, including Turkey, the U.S., and Gulf states, in shaping Syria’s trajectory.

Dr. Hawar Khalil Taher, Dean of the College of Political Science, discussed the internal challenges within Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham, emphasising the fragility of its leadership and the risks of fragmentation. He argued that Syria’s political future remains uncertain, with regional powers playing a decisive role in shaping governance.

Dr. Hajar Bashir Kalari Sadoon examined the global dimension of the Syrian conflict, stating that international interventions are often driven by geopolitical interests rather than humanitarian concerns. She noted that shifting U.S. policies in the region could have far-reaching consequences for Syria’s stability.

Dr. Sadiq Sadiq Haamid, from the Department of Peace Studies and Human Rights, provided a historical perspective on the Syrian conflict, highlighting how initial expectations regarding the survival of Bashar al-Assad’s regime have evolved over time. He argued that the collapse of the Syrian army fundamentally altered the geopolitical landscape, influencing Kurdish self-governance and regional stability.

2. The Kurdish Perspective: Autonomy and Political Strategies in Rojava

The second session explored the future of Kurdish self-governance in Rojava, focusing on political and military strategies to secure long-term stability. Experts discussed:

• The strengths and challenges of the Kurdish-led autonomous administration in Syria.
• The evolving relationship between Kurdish political factions and international actors.
• The role of the Kurdistan Region in supporting Kurdish stability in Syria.

Dr. Ali Mirani, Professor of History at Zakho University, analysed the political and military dynamics in Rojava, highlighting the importance of collaboration between President Masoud Barzani and SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi. He noted that Kurdish unity is crucial for securing political recognition and international support.

Azideen Naso, from the Beşikҫi Center for Humanity Research (BCHR) at UOD, examined the challenges of Kurdish political alignment with global powers. He stressed that Rojava’s administration must navigate its ties with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) carefully, as this affects international backing and diplomatic negotiations.

3. The Kurdistan Region’s Role in Supporting Stability

The final session focused on the Kurdistan Region’s strategic role in promoting peace and stability in Syria. Discussions underscored the need for:

• A unified Kurdish political strategy to protect Kurdish interests in Syria.
• Diplomatic efforts to ensure Kurdish representation in post-conflict governance.
• Stronger engagement with international partners to advocate for Kurdish rights.

Ibrahim Mehamed Khalil Mehamoud, a researcher at the Beşikҫi Center for Humanity Research (BCHR), discussed the broader sociopolitical landscape in Syria, arguing that Kurdish resistance has played a crucial role in shaping Syria’s future. He highlighted the Peshmerga forces’ contribution in Kobani as a defining moment in Kurdish political history.

Key Takeaways from the Symposium

• The Syrian conflict remains volatile, with external actors shaping governance structures.
• Kurdish self-administration in Rojava faces both opportunities and risks, requiring stronger international engagement.
• The Kurdistan Region must take an active role in promoting Kurdish political unity and stability in Syria.
• Geopolitical calculations, rather than humanitarian concerns, continue to drive international intervention in Syria.

Conclusion: A Call for Strategic Engagement

The symposium reaffirmed the need for academic research, policy development, and diplomatic efforts to navigate the complex Syrian crisis. The experts called for strengthening academic collaboration to produce policy-driven research that informs decision-makers and stakeholders.

The University of Duhok, through its Center for Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, remains committed to promoting knowledge exchange and fostering informed discussions on regional conflicts and their impact on Kurdish political and social stability.

For more updates on academic events, research collaborations, and peace studies initiatives, stay connected with UOD’s official platforms.

• 📍 University of Duhok Media | February 4, 2025
• ✍ Written by: Ismat M. Mohammed 
• 📸 Photography by: Harman Jangeer Ahmed