Democratic Islam Conference Warns of Sectarian Divisions in Syria

Democratic Islam Conference Warns of Sectarian Divisions in Syria
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The Democratic Islam Conference has voiced concern over the current situation in Syria, warning that growing divisions along sectarian lines threaten social stability and coexistence. Organisers described the ruling authorities as a “Salafi-jihadi system” that exploits religion for political ends, deepening rifts among communities and moving away from principles of justice and tolerance.

The gathering, held in the city of Jal Agha in Syria’s Jazira region, brought together religious and social figures, political parties, civil society groups, and members of the women’s organisation Kongra Star. Proceedings opened with a moment of silence for victims of the conflict, followed by a message from Sheikh Sinan Seydush, head of the Al-Bayt Association, who emphasised that Syria belongs to all its citizens regardless of sect, ethnicity, or background. He called for rejecting exclusion and sectarian strife, pointing to the Medina Charter as a model of coexistence and justice.

Abdul Karim Saroukhan, co-chair of the conference’s organising body, highlighted that democracy is rooted in Islamic traditions of consultation and dialogue. Participants concluded that Islam should serve as a unifying force rather than a tool of division, stressing the need to protect diversity and build a democratic Syria grounded in justice, tolerance, and equal rights for all citizens.