Recent clashes between government forces and Kurdish groups in Syria have sparked protests across several German cities in recent days, as thousands took to the streets to demand Kurdish rights. The Kurdish community numbers over 20 million worldwide, most of whom live in Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and Syria, and have long reported systematic discrimination, particularly by the Syrian state and Turkey.
A demonstration in Luxembourg mirrored these protests. Kurdish activist Askander Tamo told reporters that the community feels abandoned and under threat, and that Europe – including smaller countries like Luxembourg – should use its influence to apply international pressure. He highlighted that the Kurdish people want to live peacefully alongside Christians, Jews, Arabs, and other religious groups, and emphasised that the community values openness and mutual respect.
For decades, the Kurdish regions in Syria have faced intense political and military pressure. The recent ceasefire brokered between government forces and Kurdish militias in northeastern Syria remains fragile, leaving tens of thousands of people displaced.
Tamo also said the Syrian government does not recognise Kurdish self-government and aims to assert complete control over the territory. He added: “But these people tell us that we can no longer speak our language, that we have to change ourselves and integrate, convert our religion and become radical Muslims. But we don’t want that, that’s not our culture”.
The demonstrators also criticised the international community for leaving the Kurds politically exposed after their key role in the fight against the Islamic State.
