TEV-DEM held a press conference in Hesekê on living conditions, with the participation of civil society organisations and representatives of communes.
The statement was read by Mihemed Beşîr, a member of the Union of Intellectuals. The statement said that the region is going through a difficult period economically and socially, noting that access to bread, medicine, fuel and basic services is increasing the burden on families. It said that current economic policies have led to increases in the prices of fuel, electricity, food and medicine, while poverty and unemployment have grown and corruption has deepened.
TEV-DEM also drew attention to problems with fuel supplies, rising petrol, diesel and gas prices, and deficiencies in infrastructure and public services, stating that these conditions also pose risks to the environment and public health.
The statement said that the 29 January Agreement was considered important for ensuring security and stability, enabling the safe return of displaced people, launching a new peace process and developing joint initiatives.
It stressed that political dialogue is the most appropriate path towards protecting the rights of all peoples and building a democratic Syria.
TEV-DEM stated that the success of a political solution depends directly on improving people’s living conditions and made the following calls to the transitional government and the Autonomous Administration:
- Policies that lead to price increases must be halted, and fuel must be made available to the public at fair and stable prices.
- The agricultural sector must be supported, production needs must be met, and food security must be ensured through fair pricing policies for strategic products.
- Basic services, particularly electricity, water, healthcare, employment, bread and transportation, must be improved, and infrastructure must be repaired.
- Pricing policies for basic consumer goods must be developed with people’s economic circumstances in mind, customs duties must be reduced, and corruption must be prevented.
- The local economy must be revitalised by supporting production and employment; employment opportunities must be increased, particularly for young people and women.
- The problems arising from the exchange of old and new currencies must be resolved.
- The safe return of displaced people must be ensured.
- Fundamental freedoms must be protected, and freedom of expression and political activities must be guaranteed.
- Steps must be taken to strengthen the democratic participation of all social groups in Syria.
- Efforts must be undertaken towards a comprehensive and democratic political solution.