The Democratic Union Party (PYD) is a political party in Syria, primarily representing the Kurdish population. Founded in 2003, it aims to promote Kurdish rights and autonomy within Syria. The PYD is closely associated with the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and has played a significant role in the Syrian Civil War, particularly in the establishment of autonomous regions known as Rojava. The party advocates for a democratic, pluralistic society and has implemented various social reforms in the areas it controls. The PYD has also formed military alliances, notably with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), to combat extremist groups like ISIS.