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Analyzing Turkish Military Campaigns on Rojava: Do They Work?
Abstract
This paper analyzes the Turkish military's impact on Rojava, North Eastern Syria since the area fell under Democratic Union Party (PYD) control in 2012. The PYD, linked to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), aimed to implement the Democratic Confederalist Model in Rojava after the Syrian government lost control. The rise of ISIS and a security vacuum in the region led the PYD to ally with the U.S., forming the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) with diverse ethnic rebel groups. Turkey, however, views the PYD and its affiliates as terrorists and has conducted cross-border military operations in Rojava. Recent intensified air campaigns have heavily damaged civilian infrastructure, disrupting essential services. Turkey's goal appears to be dismantling Rojava's de facto autonomy by creating divisions among its local allies. This study assesses the effects of Turkey's military actions on Rojava's socio-political landscape. It explores whether these actions foster division or solidarity among Rojava's diverse communities and examines their impact on the region's military, political, and economic structures. Methodologically, this paper utilizes content analysis of media, political statements, and interviews with Rojava officials, journalists, and political figures. It also analyzes the SDF's public statements and recruitment trends to gauge the campaign's influence.
Discipline
Political Science
Geographic Area
Iraq
Kurdistan
Syria
Turkey
Sub Area
None