The Jazira Canton, located in the Kurdish-dominated areas of northern Syria, declared its autonomy from the Syrian Arab Republic in January 2014. This decision came in the context of the chaotic environment brought about by the Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011. During the civil upheaval, Kurdish groups in Syria began to establish control over certain regions, seeking to assert their rights and local governance. The declaration emphasized the need for an autonomous administration that could address the aspirations of the local Kurdish population, who have long sought recognition and independence from the central Syrian government.

The Jazira Canton was part of a larger initiative by the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD) which sought self-rule to create a model of governance known as 'Democratic Autonomy.' This focused on grassroots democracy, gender equality, and a multi-ethnic approach to governance. The autonomy declaration sparked both local and international reactions, displaying the complex and shifting dynamics within Syria, where various groups vied for control amid the civil war's fragmentation.

In the months following the declaration, the Kurdish-controlled areas witnessed relative stability compared to other parts of Syria, enabling the local administration to build institutions, combat ISIS, and provide services to their population. This move marked a significant turning point for Kurdish political aspirations in Syria and highlighted the changing landscape of power and governance amid the ongoing conflict, providing a different perspective on the future of the region.