The Heracles has been working hand in hand with the local leadership in North and East
Syria, referred to as Free Syria. This area is a fledgling democracy that seeks to include a diaspora
of ethnically and religiously diverse communities and regions. Every region has a Civil Council and
sub-councils that have been democratically elected or have been appointed, with the support of local
leaders, in preparation for upcoming elections. Each position on the councils is shared by a male
and female representative to promote equality and to encourage fairness throughout their
governance.
This democratic model is now being threatened by the U.S. Administration’s recent reversal
in policy to withdraw critical military support, allowing the Turkish military to invade peaceful towns
still recovering from the scourge of ISIS. This decision will significantly impede recovery and
reconstruction efforts throughout Free Syria. Similar to what we witnessed when the U.S.
Administration announced a withdrawal of U.S. Forces from Syria last year, this decision will create
an exodus of non-profit and charity organizations from Syria. Organizations that are helping to
rebuild and improve every facet of Free Syrian society will be withdrawn, and the finances for current
and future projects will dry up.
The largest contributor to the reconstruction effort is the United States Agency for
International Development (USAID). Similar to non-profit and charity organizations, their work will
similarly be hampered because their personnel will be forced to evacuate with U.S. Forces due to a
lack of security. Their projects will also be slowed or stopped and future projects will be delayed or
cancelled.
The Heracles Group is remaining and is committed to continuing our efforts to help rebuild
Free Syria. Private donations are even more important now to replace the decreased funding from
government entities who have now evacuated the area. We ask that you sincerely consider helping
Free Syrians and give what you can to support their continued recovery even during these trying
times. Thank you for your support.
