HDP during EUTCC conference calls for solving Kurdish Issue

 The conference, organized by the European Union Turkey Civic Commission (EUTCC) in the Belgian capital, Brussels, at the European Parliament, marked its second day with a session titled "A New Era in Turkey; Obstacles and Opportunities for Peace and Resolution," moderated by Dersim Dagdfern of the Kurdish Academics Network (Kurd-Akad).

 In his speech, Tongar Bakirhan referred to the four-hour meeting with leader Abdullah Ocalan, highlighting the failure of the previous peace process, which led to a violent conflict.

"This war has created significant polarization within society, turning law into an instrument for the state, plunging the economy into a severe crisis, and increasing pressure on our party. Hopes for peace almost shattered. During this period, deep divides emerged across all sectors of society, and this polarization has intensified over the past decade. However, the call made by leader Ocalan on February 27 is crucial, as the last ten years have brought significant lessons."

 "The Kurdish Issue Has Become an International Matter"

 Bakirhan further stated, "The Kurdish issue has now reached regional and international levels. It is no longer just the concern of the Kurds; it has become a matter involving other social groups as well. The transformation of Turkey into a democracy and its economic independence is tied to resolving the Kurdish issue. This is not a political choice, but an existential necessity. We must draw lessons from the past, and we are critically reflecting on the shortcomings of the previous peace process.

Despite all its flaws, the previous process was one of trust-building and democracy, which contributed to significant economic stability. The peace process paved the way for the country, and resolving the Kurdish issue opens many opportunities."

 " Leader Ocalan Has Been Striving for Peace Since 1993"

 Lawyer and member of the Office for the Era of Human Rights, Mazlum Deng, offered a legal assessment of the "Right to Hope" law and the potential for a peace period. He mentioned that leader Abdullah Ocalan, in his appeal, had stated that the severe denial policies and lack of freedom of expression had led him to resort to armed struggle. The leader has been seeking peace since 1993 and has attempted to lead Turkey toward democracy and peace. However, until today, no political administration has shown the willingness to find a solution.

 "Turkey Has Taken No Steps in the Past 11 Years"

 Mazlum Deng reminded the attendees of the European Council's ministerial committee decision on the "Right to Hope," adding, "When it comes to the Kurds or leader Abdullah Ocalan, the law is not implemented. This disregard for the law has extended to all segments of society. The initial failure to implement the law against Mr. Abdullah Ocalan was met with silence, and our struggle continued.

 Following the abolition of the death penalty and Ocalan's capture, a system of 'aggravated life imprisonment' was introduced, paving the way for imprisonment until death. We took this matter to the European Court of Human Rights, which ruled on March 18, 2014, that this law constituted a form of torture. Yet, over the past 11 years, Turkey has not taken any action."

 "No Action Taken on the Right to Hope Despite Calls"

 After Devlet Bahçeli discussed the "Right to Hope" on October 22, 2024, the issue became a topic for everyone. Bahçeli essentially expressed a call for freedom, urging leader Ocalan to fulfill his role. However, despite leader Ocalan's call, no action has been taken on the "Right to Hope." Steps should have been taken without any political compromises, but this has not occurred thus far.

 "Ocalan's Freedom Is Key to the Process"

 The leader, in his most recent appeal, emphasized that if the current process fails, the consequences will be severe. He noted that the process he initiated may be the last opportunity, and it is essential for all parties to take responsibility. This is a process where anyone may bear a heavy cost, and we must ensure its success. The initiative for this process should not be left to the authorities. Leader Ocalan's freedom is at the core of this process, and Europe also bears responsibility in this regard. Despite institutions capable of standing against the injustice inflicted upon Öcalan, we have yet to see any concrete steps. The responsible institutions must shoulder their duties and take a pro-democracy stance.

 a.k

ANHA