Social Democratic Alliance Conference in Arab World elects head; Women’s Union Leader

The Social Democratic Alliance Conference in the Arab World concluded its work on Saturday, August 30, 2025, in Sulaymaniyah, Southern Kurdistan, after four days of sessions and discussions that began on the 27th of the same month. The conference saw the participation of prominent political figures from Kurdistan, Iraq, the Arab world, as well as delegations from North and East Syria and North Kurdistan.

The conference culminated in the election of Pavl Jalal Talabani, President of the Kurdistan National Union, as the President of the Social Democratic Alliance in the Arab World for the current term, by unanimous vote. Participants considered handing over the leadership of the alliance to Pavl Talabani as "entrusting the responsibility to capable hands." Additionally, Feryal Abdullah, a prominent member of the Kurdistan National Union, was elected as the President of the Women's Union (Shihana) within the alliance.

Key Activities on the Final Day

The fourth and final day of the conference featured a presentation of reports from the coordinator of the Social Democratic Alliance in the Arab World, along with a report from the international coordinator of the Progressive Alliance.

Three simultaneous workshops were also held, focusing on:

Common political priorities and issues

Strengthening the organizational structure of the alliance

The Arab peace framework – a shared vision

Following the workshops, the results were presented, and the final statement was announced.

Speeches and Contributions

Meanwhile, Darbaz Kosret Rasol, Head of the Relations Office at the Kurdistan National Union, delivered a speech in which he expressed gratitude to the attendees for their sincere commitment to justice, equality, and peace. He emphasized that solidarity "is a real force that connects peoples across borders." He added, "Throughout this conference, we exchanged ideas and experiences, building new bridges for cooperation… I only wish that Mam Jalal were here to witness the values he fought for over fifty years."

He also praised the dedication of the partners in the Progressive Alliance and the Social Democratic Alliance, affirming that change "is not only possible but is already happening, driven by the leadership of vibrant social democratic forces."

For his part, the newly elected President of the Alliance, Pavl Jalal Talabani, delivered a speech in which he confirmed that taking on this responsibility is "a great honor." He called for joint efforts to achieve reform, unity, and justice, stressing that citizens "are waiting for actions, not words." He added, "Sulaymaniyah has always been at the forefront in serving the Kurdish cause… When we talk about freedom here, it is not just words, but a commitment we live by."

He also expressed concern about the situation of the components in Syria, particularly the Kurdish people, emphasizing the need for the transitional government in Syria to represent all its components without discrimination. He reiterated his unwavering support for the Palestinian cause as a central issue for Arabs.

The Social Democratic Alliance in the Arab World

The alliance includes around 20 political parties and movements with a social democratic orientation from Arab countries and neighboring nations. Its goal is to promote the values of social justice, democracy, and human rights.

The conference concluded with a closed session with representatives of the Progressive Alliance and several international partners to discuss future prospects for cooperation and joint coordination in the upcoming phase.

ANHA