Decree No. 188 threatens identity of Syria’s basic components

A new decree issued by the Presidency of the Syrian Transitional Government (No. 188) has sparked widespread discontent and criticism among the country’s diverse communities, as it includes the abolition of several national and religious holidays that embody long-standing cultural traditions across Syrian society.

Residents from different ethnic and religious backgrounds in Jazira Canton, NE Syria, said the decision reflects the continuation of the exclusionary and marginalizing policies practiced by the former regime, warning that it threatens Syria’s cultural pluralism.

Jessica Danho, a Syriac citizen from Tirbespî, described the cancellation of holidays such as Newroz and Akitu as an attempt to erase the heritage of ancient communities.

“These occasions date back thousands of years and form an integral part of the collective memory of Syria’s diverse peoples,” she said. “Under the Baathist rule, communities suffered political and social exclusion, and today the transitional government is reinforcing the same policies.”

Khadija Alu, a Kurdish woman from Amuda, stated that these decisions do not serve the interests of the Syrian people.

She added: “The Turkish occupation imposes its policies on the transitional authority in Damascus, while the Syrian people of all backgrounds have sacrificed greatly to build a democratic, decentralized state—and they will not accept subordination to any foreign power.”

Maksab Al-Siyah, from Tal Kojar, denounced the decree, describing it as a continuation of the Baathist regime’s exclusionary approach toward Syria’s original communities.

“This decision stems from a marginalized mindset,” he said, “and perpetuates policies that do not reflect the aspirations of the Syrian people, who rose up for justice and pluralism. Any marginalization of an authentic community’s role or culture is a fracture in the national fabric. We want a democratic, pluralistic Syria that guarantees rights for all.”

Najbir Bashar, representing the Yazidi community, expressed deep concern over the continuation of exclusionary policies.

She said: “The Yazidis have historically faced attempts at extermination, the most recent being at the hands of ISIS mercenaries. Today, we see the transitional authority in Damascus marginalizing indigenous peoples and faiths, just as previous regimes did.”

a.k

ANHA