A coalition of 21 associations under the National Coordination for Solidarity with Kurdistan (CNSK) has criticised the French government for its dualistic approach towards the Kurdish community. The open letter, signed by CNSK co-chairs Pascal Torre and Annick Samouelian, was recently published in the French newspaper L’Humanité.
In Marseille, the Kurdish community faced intensified police operations and public demonstrations, showcasing the growing unrest. The letter, dated 23 March, highlights an alarming increase in oppressive actions against Kurds residing in France. It recalls the ban on prominent figures like the veteran Kurdish politician Remzi Kartal from entering France, reflecting the state’s stringent stance.
The letter condemns the harsh sentences handed down to Kurdish activists, the revocation of refugee status and the freezing of assets, denouncing these actions as arbitrary. It points out that the accused Kurds had been participating in democratic activities and actions with associations legally established within the framework of French law. It emphasised the peaceful and legal nature of the activities in question.
Moreover, the letter draws attention to inconsistent French policies, which simultaneously support Kurdish fighters like the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) in the Middle East while stigmatising Kurdish refugees in France. This contradictory stance has sparked controversy, the letter argues, as Kurds cannot be simultaneously labelled heroes in the Middle East and terrorists in France.
The inclusion of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) on the list of terrorist organisations is also contested in the letter, which suggests that the terroist designation unjustly criminalises a movement advocating for freedom, peace and human rights.
The letter concludes by urging an end to the wave of oppression against the Kurdish community in France, advocating for their protection and fair treatment. It argues that the Kurds should not be sacrificed for political and economic ties with Turkey.