The Kurdish question in Turkey, which has a history dating back to the foundation of the republic and has been marked by conflicts over the past 40 years, is a socio-political issue that cannot be solved through security-focused policies or violence, said a number of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that came together on Saturday to call for a political solution to the question.
The major meeting, “Civil Society Meeting for the Solution of the Kurdish Question”, was held in the Kurdish-majority city of Diyarbakır (Amed). Dr Elif Turan, head of the Diyarbakır Medical Association, announced the results of the meeting in a statement titled “We must discuss the solution again”.
The statement emphasised the urgent need to revisit the solution to the Kurdish conflict, highlighting the detrimental effects of its longstanding unresolved status on society, security and the democratic fabric of the country.
Key issues raised include:
Ongoing prohibitions and assimilation policies applied to the Kurdish language, restrictions on cultural activities and obstacles to education and public use of the Kurdish language.
Environmental damage caused by military operations, particularly in forested areas, and the pursuance of profit-driven land development.
The impact of excessive security measures, including the deaths of children in incidents involving armoured vehicles, and the prevailing impunity in relation to such acts.
Political repression, including the lifting of parliamentary immunity, detentions, the appointment of community trustees and the closure of political parties, which are seen as violations of constitutional and international rights to political participation.
The exacerbation of gender-based violence and poverty among women as a direct result of the unresolved Kurdish question.
The organisations called for:
A renewed commitment to resolving the Kurdish question, which requires a ceasefire to facilitate dialogue.
The removal of obstacles to the involvement of all stakeholders in the search for a lasting peace and solution.
Recognition of the Kurdish issue as central to addressing the legal, democratic and economic challenges in the country, and encouragement of political parties to address the issue beyond political rivalries.
Support for civil society initiatives aimed at resolving the issue, drawing on global experience.
A new, democratic and inclusive constitution with broad participation, prioritising the resolution of societal issues.
