It is “time for Öcalan’s urgent release”, sociologist Michael Löwy, a key figure in the “Freedom for Abdullah Öcalan and a Democratic Solution to the Kurdish Issue” global campaign, has stated. Speaking in an interview with Mezopotamya News Agency’s Müjdat Can and Hîvda Çelebi, Löwy emphasised the importance of Öcalan’s theory of democratic confederalism in resolving the Kurdish question and highlighted the potential for a peaceful solution to the ongoing conflict in Turkey.
Renewed hope for peace in Turkey
Löwy expressed optimism about the renewed peace process in Turkey, which has gained momentum since 1 October. He believes that there is now hope that the peace process, which was initiated by Abdullah Öcalan, could lead to a peaceful solution of the Kurdish issue. According to Löwy, the only way forward for both the Turkish and Kurdish peoples is freedom and democracy. He stressed that Öcalan’s vision of peace was critical and expressed hope that this would soon lead to the freedom of Öcalan and other political prisoners, such as Selahattin Demirtaş.
“The peace process initiated by Öcalan is the only way out for both peoples. I hope it will lead to peace and the release of Öcalan and all political prisoners,” said Löwy.
Impact on Turkey’s EU integration
Löwy also discussed how a solution to the Kurdish question could have a positive impact on Turkey’s relations with the European Union. He said that if the democratic rights of the Kurdish people were guaranteed, it would be a significant step towards Turkey’s integration into Europe. Löwy added that Europe would have no reason to refuse Turkey’s integration if a democratic solution to the Kurdish question was found.
“Such a solution would be an important step for Turkey’s future integration into Europe. If Turkey finds a democratic solution to the Kurdish question, Europe will have no reason to refuse integration,” Löwy said.
Criticism of Europe’s shift towards a security-centred policy
Löwy criticised Europe’s increasing focus on security and militarisation, particularly in light of discussions at the Munich Security Conference. He warned that increasing investment in armaments and military preparedness would undermine democratic rights, social services and environmental sustainability.
“Europe’s shift towards militarisation and war preparations is very negative. It marginalises democratic rights and essential services such as health and education,” said Löwy. “What we need is more ecological transformation, more social rights and more democracy.”
Öcalan’s intellectual contributions to socialist thought
Löwy praised Öcalan’s intellectual contributions, particularly his writings on democratic confederalism, ecology and women’s freedom. Despite being in prison for 26 years, Öcalan has offered valuable perspectives on how socialist and revolutionary movements worldwide should approach the “national question” and the quest for freedom.
“Öcalan’s work is a crucial contribution to revolutionary movements. His approach to ecology, women’s freedom and the nation state offers valuable lessons for socialists and revolutionaries,” said Löwy.
Democratic confederalism: An alternative to the nation-state
Löwy highlighted the innovative nature of Öcalan’s theory of democratic confederalism, which offers a new way of addressing the national question by avoiding the dangers of centralised, authoritarian nation-states. He described Öcalan’s proposal as an original and important one, offering a fresh perspective on how to move beyond the long history of conflicts over the nation-state.
The leading role of women in the Kurdish movement
Löwy also discussed the role of women in the Kurdish movement, particularly in Rojava. He pointed out that women play a central role in Rojava’s democratic, decentralised political system, achieving equality with men and leading the freedom movement. Löwy emphasised that Rojava’s experience is a groundbreaking example of women leading the way in the fight for freedom.
“Rojava’s experience is truly unique in showing how women can become leaders in the freedom movement and achieve equality with men,” said Löwy.
Rojava’s ecological vision
Löwy praised Rojava’s ecological vision, inspired by social ecologist Murray Bookchin. He noted that despite difficult conditions, Rojava has prioritised ecological transition and made efforts to develop an ecological approach. Löwy believes that Rojava’s future should continue to focus on ecological transition and serve as a positive example for other nations.
“Ecological transition is at the heart of Rojava’s vision for the future. Other countries should follow suit,” Löwy concluded.
A call for continued struggle
Finally, Löwy reiterated that the Kurdish people must continue to be active, organised and fight for their rights. While he remains hopeful about the peace process, he stressed that peace can only be achieved through the continued struggle of the Kurdish people.
“The Kurdish people must remain active, organised and continue to fight for their rights. This is essential for the peace that is needed for both the Turkish and Kurdish people,” said Löwy.
