IRF Secretariat President calls for minority rights protection

"We have seen crimes against Kurds, Christians, Yezidis, and others in areas invaded by the Syrian National Army and Turkey in recent weeks," Maenza stated.

Nadine Maenza, the President of the IRF Secretariat, speaking to Kurdistan24, Dec. 20, 2024. (Photo: Kurdistan24)
Nadine Maenza, the President of the IRF Secretariat, speaking to Kurdistan24, Dec. 20, 2024. (Photo: Kurdistan24)

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Nadine Maenza, President of the International Religious Freedom (IRF) Secretariat, emphasized the importance of safeguarding minority rights in Syria during an exclusive interview with Kurdistan24 on Friday. She underscored the need for dialogue with Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and called on Turkey and the Syrian National Army to ensure the protection of religious and ethnic minorities in areas under their control.  

"We have seen crimes against Kurds, Christians, Yezidis, and others in areas invaded by the Syrian National Army and Turkey in recent weeks," Maenza stated. "It is crucial to hold these actors accountable for ensuring the safety and equality of all Syrian citizens."  

Leveraging US Influence

Maenza highlighted the significant influence the United States holds in Syria, including economic sanctions and the designation of HTS and its leader, Abu Mohammad al-Julani — now known as Ahmed al-Sharaa — as terrorists. She stressed that lifting these sanctions prematurely would be detrimental to Syria’s minorities.  

"There should be clear demands for equal treatment and respect for all citizens of Syria before sanctions are lifted," Maenza said. "The US has the power to push for a Syria that serves all its people, not just a select few."  

Support for Democratic Autonomous Administration  

Maenza praised the Democratic Autonomous Administration in North and East Syria for its inclusive governance model, which provides protection and representation for religious and ethnic minorities. "This Kurdish-run administration has evolved into a multi-ethnic, multi-religious government. It is a rare refuge for religious minorities in the region," she noted.  

She also drew parallels with the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, commending its track record of welcoming diverse religious communities and fostering an environment of coexistence. "Just as the international community supports the Kurdistan Region, it should also stand with Northeast Syria, where minority groups are part of the governance structure," Maenza added.  

Concerns about HTS Governance 

Maenza expressed skepticism about HTS's ability to foster inclusivity, citing its troubling history in areas like Idlib, where severe violations of religious freedom have been documented. "The United States designated HTS as an entity of particular concern due to these violations. While promises of change have been made, HTS's track record raises serious doubts," she said.  

Humanitarian Support and Sanctions Policy 

Addressing the dire humanitarian situation in Syria, Maenza urged the US and the international community to provide aid to displaced Syrians, particularly the over 100,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Raqqa and al-Tabqah. However, she cautioned against lifting sanctions too hastily.  

"It is crucial to support Syrians in need through humanitarian aid while holding off on lifting sanctions until we see a government in Damascus that serves all Syrians," she emphasized. "The US and its allies must ensure that any future Syrian government respects the rights of minorities and guarantees their safety."  

Call to Action  

Maenza's remarks serve as a reminder of the complex challenges facing Syria after 13 years of civil war. As international actors consider their next moves, she urged a balanced approach that prioritizes minority rights and ensures inclusivity in any political transition.  

"Now is the time for vigilance," she concluded. "The international community must watch closely to ensure that religious communities are not sidelined or endangered in the evolving Syrian landscape."