Abstract

This is the first book to focus on the plight of the Kurds in Syria. The Kurds are Syria's largest minority, and continue to be subject to extreme human rights abuses. Along with Kerim Yildiz's other recent books -- The Kurds in Iraq, and the Kurds in Turkey -- this builds on his comprehensive analysis of the current human rights situation for the largest ethnic group worldwide without its own state.

Yildiz examines the contemporary situation of the Syrian Kurds in the context of Syria's own history, and the present situation where it is outlawed as a terrorist state by the USA. Fifty percent of Syria's income now goes on military spending -- for Syria feels threatened by her neighbours, and this is mirrored in the way minorities are treated within the country.

Covering all aspects of Kurdish life including language, education, religion and history, Yildiz offers a unique insight into the human rights situation of the Kurds in Syria.
In recent years a number of studies on the Kurds in Iraq, Turkey, and even Iran have appeared. With the exception of a few reports from human rights groups and a brief mention in some general studies, however, Kerim Yildiz's aptly sub-titled monograph 'The Forgotten People' is one of the first in English dealing with the Kurds in Syria. Thus, Yildiz's study fills a gap in scholarship by offering a well written and incisive analysis of 'Syria's largest minority group' which comprises almost 10 per cent of the Syrian population. Usefully, Yildiz lists 12 Kurdish political parties operating covertly in Syria by name and leader. His study also includes a map, two appendices, detailed notes, a bibliography, and an index. It will prove a valuable addition to current scholarship on the Kurds, Syria and human rights.
Michael Gunter, Middle East Journal