Kurdish Representation in Syria's Parliament Draws Criticism After Elections

Kurdish representation in Syria’s People's Assembly has sparked debate after the latest elections, with the number of Kurdish members rising to 8 following voting in Hasakah and Kobani. Kurdish activists said the total remains far below what they consider proportionate to the country’s Kurdish population and called for fairer representation. The elections were held on 5 October 2025 in many parts of the country, while voting in Kurdish areas and in Suwayda was postponed because of political and field conditions. The delayed areas remain outside the initial electoral process, adding to questions over the balance of representation in the legislature. Under Syria’s transitional arrangements, President Ahmed al-Sharaa has the authority to appoint one-third of parliament, or 70 members. That power is expected to play a central role in shaping the final composition of the assembly. The dispute over Kurdish seats has emerged as a broader political issue as the country moves through its transition. Activists are pressing for a parliamentary formula that better reflects the country’s ethnic and political diversity.