Solardarity
New energy for Rojava
Background
Rojava is seen as a beacon of hope for democratic development in Syria. The autonomous region in the northeast of the country has been largely self-governing since the outbreak of civil war and is known for its unique political structure based on the principles of democracy, gender equality and environmental sustainability. Since its founding, Rojava has faced numerous threats. In addition to the conflicts with the Assad regime, people in the region must, above all, resist the attacks from Turkey and the so-called Islamic State
Project description
The “Solardarity” campaign was launched to support the electricity supply of the autonomous region of Rojava, which was severely affected by Turkish air strikes. These attacks pose existential challenges to self-government. Until now, the region was largely dependent on the central Swediye gas power plant and decentralized diesel generators. However, Turkish air strikes have largely destroyed the region’s power and substations. Diesel generators are also considered harmful to health and pollute the environment and the climate.
The aim of the project is to equip public institutions with solar panels to ensure a sustainable electricity supply in Rojava. The first step is to supply three schools in Qamislo – two primary schools and one secondary school – with solar energy. These schools already existed during the Assad regime and are now operated under self-administration.
With the support of the Care for Future Foundation, it is possible to equip a primary school with 14 solar panels. School operations will be possible again without interruptions. In addition, the supply of solar energy should also ensure the school’s water supply. The schools were selected in close coordination with the regional education authority, as they can best assess where support is most urgently needed.
The solar panels are installed on the school’s roofs and then handed over to the self-governing education authority, which is responsible for maintenance and upkeep.
The campaign is implemented by Medico international in collaboration with the Kurdish Red Crescent. This local emergency relief organization takes over the professional distribution and installation of the solar modules at the school.
Medico international is an aid and human rights organization that has been active since 1968, providing international humanitarian aid and working with partner organizations in the global south to overcome poverty and exclusion. Every year, medico supports over 100 projects worldwide. In 1997, the international campaign to ban landmines initiated by medico was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.