The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) has announced its dissolution, marking the end of its 40-year insurgency against the Turkish state. This historic decision follows a call by the group’s jailed leader, Abdullah Ocalan, for it to disband. The PKK’s insurgency initially aimed to create an independent homeland for Kurds, who account for about 20% of Turkey’s population, but has since shifted its focus to autonomy and greater Kurdish rights.
Background
The PKK’s decision to disband comes after decades of conflict that have resulted in the deaths of over 40,000 people. The group, designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the EU, UK, and US, has been waging an armed struggle against the Turkish state since 1984. In recent years, the PKK has been hit hard by the Turkish military, and regional changes have made it challenging for them to operate in Iraq and Syria.
Key Quotes
- Abdullah Ocalan: “There is no alternative to democracy in the pursuit and realization of a political system. Democratic consensus is the fundamental way.”
- PKK Statement: The group said it has “completed its historical mission” and would “end the method of armed struggle.” From now on, the Kurdish issue “can be resolved through democratic politics”.
- Duran Kalkan, PKK Executive Committee Member: “This is not the end, it is a new beginning.”
- Omer Celik, AKP Spokesman: “The PKK’s decision to dissolve itself and lay down its arms following the call from Imrali is an important step towards a terror-free Turkey.”
Implications and Reactions
The decision to disband has been welcomed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s AKP party, but they have warned that the process will be “meticulously monitored” by the government. Analysts believe that a deal with the Kurds could allow Erdogan to amend the constitution and extend his term in office, while driving a wedge between pro-Kurdish parties and the rest of Turkey’s opposition.
- Winthrop Rodgers, Chatham House: “A major democratic transition by Turkey” is needed to accommodate demands from Kurdish political parties. While there has been “some goodwill” from Turkish leaders, it’s unclear if this extends to major changes needed for full Kurdish participation in politics and society. Rodgers added, “In a lot of ways, the ball is in Turkey’s court.”
What’s Next?
The PKK’s disbandment may lead to a new political dialogue and a pathway towards greater Kurdish rights. However, the implications of this decision are still unclear, and the process will likely be closely watched by the international community.