The Turkmen Reality in Syria

Turkmens constitute an important part of the social life in Syria. They carry on a “struggle for honor and freedom” against the regime, within the ranks of both military and political opposition. It is unknown as to what kind of expectations the Turkmens, who have been largely ignored by the international society for various reasons, have for the post-Assad Syria. The Syrian Turkmen Assembly, the only legitimate representative body of Turkmens, seeks to fill this gap by explaining Syrian Turkmens’ demands and goals in a strategic framework. This article should be considered as part of the same goal. In this paper, the Syrian Turkmen Assembly’s founding process, vision and mission will be discussed. In addition, short, medium and long term expectations of Turkmens regarding the Syrian crisis will be explained. This article seeks to contribute to the efforts for political solution in Syria.