A new special unit has been established in North-East Syria to protect the environment. The Environmental Protection Forces are tasked with curbing environmental violations, conducting patrols, and, in the future, responding to natural disasters.
The Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES) has established a new special unit to protect the environment. The Environmental Protection Forces were created by the Internal Security Forces (Asayish) in close coordination with the Regional Environmental Agency. The aim is to systematically protect nature and curb environmental crimes in the region.
The new structure was established in line with the decisions made at the annual meeting of the Environment Committee of North and East Syria on December 15. The official presentation of the new structure took place on Monday at the Environmental Agency building in the canton of Raqqa. Representatives of the new unit, delegates from regional environmental assemblies, and the co-chairs of the Environmental Agency attended the event.
In his speech, Ibrahim el-Esed, co-chair of the Environmental Agency, emphasized the importance of consistent environmental monitoring. He said that the past few years had left a significant mark on the environment in Syria as a whole, and in northern and eastern Syria in particular. The region faces a multitude of environmental challenges that require active action, he added.
Jasim al-Dhaif, a senior representative of the new unit, explained that the environmental protection forces are not only responsible for enforcing environmental regulations, but also take preventive and educational measures. The unit is being set up on the basis of clearly defined ecological criteria established by the Environmental Agency.
The new structure is to be present in all cities and cantons in northern and eastern Syria in the future. Its tasks include combating poaching, preventing illegal logging, and protecting soil, air, and water. Patrols and checks are to be carried out in cooperation with the Environmental Agency in protected areas, forests, and along rivers.
Al-Dhaif pointed out that the unit would be adequately staffed and would be strengthened and expanded from 2026 onwards through a strategic development program. A particular focus will also be placed on preparing for natural disasters. In future, the unit will also be able to respond to emergencies such as floods or forest fires around the clock.
With the establishment of Environmental Protection Forces, the Autonomous Administration aims to establish environmental protection as an integral part of social security. Cooperation with local institutions will help to ensure a healthy and sustainable environment throughout northern and eastern Syria in the long term.
