Autonomous Administration in Syria Faces Protests Over Wheat Purchase Price

The Autonomous Administration in northern and eastern Syria has maintained a controversial wheat purchase price despite widespread discontent and protests from local farmers. The new price, set at 31 cents per kilogram, represents a significant decrease from last year's price of 50 cents per kilogram, leading to demonstrations and unrest in the region.

In contrast, the Syrian Government has increased the price of a kilogram of wheat to 5,500 Syrian pounds, equivalent to more than 33 cents. Despite this disparity, the Autonomous Administration, backed by the US and controlling the region through the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has insisted on its set price, citing a cost of 29 cents per kilogram.

The decision has led to significant unrest among farmers, who are struggling to make ends meet because the reduced purchase price has severely impacted their income. Protests have erupted in multiple cities, including Amouda, Qamishlo, Derbasiya, Raqqa, and the countryside of Deir Ez-Zour Governorate. The protests began on May 27, 2024, and have continued as farmers demand a fair price for their wheat.

Why this matters: The Autonomous Administration's decision on wheat purchase price has significant implications for the region's economy and the livelihoods of its residents. If not addressed, it could lead to further unrest, economic instability, and a decline in the standard of living for the local population.

The Assyrian Democratic Organization has condemned the decision, stating that it is unfair to the peasants and farmers and will undermine the agricultural sector. They have urged the Autonomous Administration to adjust the price to reflect increasing costs and ensure a decent living for farmers and their families. "The continuation of this irresponsible approach aims to undermine the agricultural process and eliminate the agricultural sector, which is the backbone of the region's economy," the organization stated.

The Autonomous Administration's stance has led to arrests and significant congestion in the region while the SDF carries out campaigns against protesters. The administration's decision has raised questions about its economic management and priorities, with many locals accusing it of prioritizing its own interests over the needs of the people.

The agricultural sector is vital to the region's economy, and the reduced wheat price has added to the hardships faced by locals, who are already struggling with rising fuel and food prices and deteriorating basic services. The Assyrian Democratic Organization highlighted these struggles, stating that the decision will affect the entire economic cycle of the region and the standard of living of all residents.

As protests continue, the Autonomous Administration faces mounting pressure to reconsider its decision on the wheat purchase price. The outcome of this conflict will have significant implications for the region's economy and the livelihoods of its residents.

Key Takeaways

• Autonomous Administration in northern Syria sets wheat price at 31 cents/kg, sparking protests from farmers.
• Syrian Government sets wheat price at 33 cents/kg, higher than Autonomous Administration's price.
• Farmers protest in multiple cities, demanding fair price for wheat amid economic hardship.
• Assyrian Democratic Organization condemns decision, citing harm to agricultural sector and local economy.
• Outcome of conflict will impact region's economy and residents' livelihoods, with pressure on Autonomous Administration to reconsider.