Political Dialogue – human rights expert Marion Böker discusses Kurdish issue, Middle East peace
🎙️ New episode of ‘Political Dialogue’! Host (@EremKansoy ) speaks with human rights expert (@MarionBoeker) about Kurdish issues, women liberation and Middle East peace. Don’t miss… pic.twitter.com/wCsfkotstl
— MedyaNews (@1MedyaNews) January 12, 2025
In the latest episode of ‘Political Dialogue,’ a podcast series by Medya News, host Erem Kansoy engaged in a comprehensive discussion with Marion Böker, an independent human rights expert and former President of the International Alliance of Women.
Yazidi women’s report to the United Nations
Böker began by outlining her collaborative efforts with Yazidi NGOs to produce a report for the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). The report addresses the plight of Yezidi women in Iraq and Syria, highlighting the ongoing threats from Turkish forces and affiliated militias, some comprising former ISIS fighters. Böker emphasised the interconnectedness of the Yazidi women’s situation across both countries and expressed hope for a democratic resolution to their challenges.
Abdullah Öcalan’s role in peace negotiations
The conversation shifted to the imprisoned Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan, who has expressed willingness to facilitate peace negotiations if conditions permit. Böker questioned the feasibility of Öcalan leading such efforts from prison, advocating for his release to enable meaningful participation in peace processes. She noted that while Öcalan’s writings and philosophies are accessible, his physical presence would significantly impact the success of negotiations.
Democratic governance in Rojava and Turkish aggression
Böker praised the democratic governance model in Rojava, particularly its emphasis on gender parity and inclusion of minorities. She argued that Turkey’s hostility towards this model stems from its opposition to such democratic and egalitarian principles. Böker highlighted concerns over Turkey’s collaboration with former ISIS elements and its broader regional ambitions, suggesting that these actions aim to suppress democratic movements that empower women and minorities.
International response to Turkish actions
Addressing the international community’s response, Böker criticised entities like NATO and the European Union for their silence on Turkey’s support of jihadist groups and its military actions against Kurdish and Yazidi populations. She attributed this reticence to geopolitical considerations, such as migration control agreements, and warned that ignoring these issues could lead to broader regional instability with global repercussions.
Call for Öcalan’s release and broader implications
Concluding the discussion, Böker reiterated the necessity of releasing Abdullah Öcalan, whose imprisonment exceeds the duration of his initial sentence. She underscored that genuine peace negotiations require his active involvement and that his democratic ideals could serve as a model for resolving conflicts not only in the Middle East but globally.
The episode offers an in-depth analysis of the complexities surrounding Kurdish issues, the struggle for women’s rights, and the pursuit of democratic governance in a tumultuous region.
Listen and watch the full episode here, on our podcast platforms or YouTube channel.
