The Council for Culture and Historical Heritage of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria announced that it successfully implemented its cultural projects throughout 2024. By creating free spaces for artistic production in collaboration with artists from across Syria and neighbouring countries, the Council gave momentum to a growing cultural movement.

Co-chair Murhaf Al-Fahad stated that the Council not only supports local arts but also works intensively to promote the rich cultural heritage of North and East Syria both nationally and internationally. He noted, “Preserving diversity and pluralism is one of our fundamental priorities.”

Despite the devastation of archaeological sites caused by ISIS attacks and the destructive effects of war, Murhaf Al-Fahad emphasized that the Autonomous Administration has developed restoration projects in accordance with international standards. He noted that these efforts have received widespread recognition globally, and that concrete steps have been taken to restore many significant archaeological sites.

The year 2024 witnessed a notable surge in activity, particularly in the field of visual arts. Exhibitions, workshops, and symposiums were organized across various regions of the Autonomous Administration. With the participation of both local and international artists, the Council plans to host even more extensive events in 2025.

One of the highlights of the cultural calendar will be the ninth annual 'Book Fair', set to take place in the city of Qamishlo in the Cizire (Cizîr) Canton. In addition to various publishing houses, the fair will bring together authors from both Syria and abroad. Featuring works in multiple languages, the event will emphasize the transformative power of books on society.

The Council is also taking a significant step in the field of literature with the third edition of the 'Literature Festival' to be held this year. Inspired by the success of previous editions, the event will offer a platform for young writers from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds to share their voices. The festival is held in Kurdish, Arabic, and Syriac.

Although significant progress has been made, security challenges in certain parts of the region continue to slow the growth of cultural activities. Nevertheless, the Autonomous Administration remains firmly committed to its reconstruction efforts. Murhaf Al-Fahad stated that once security and stability are ensured, projects encompassing both natural and historical sites will gain further momentum.

Highlighting the ongoing efforts in the fields of art and literature, Al-Fahad called on all Syrian artists and writers to visit the region and take part in its cultural activities.

Cultural video clips released in 2024 and 2025 also received widespread attention. Among them were “We Sing for Life” (“Ji Bo Jiyanê Em Distrên”), which reflects Arab and Kurdish heritage; “Embroider Syria” (“Sûriyeyê Bixemilînin”), symbolizing the unity of peoples; and “Passengers of the Ship” (“Siwarên Keştiyê”), which narrates the region’s history.