Kalkan: 12th Congress decisions pave new path in struggle

The PKK held its 12th Congress from May 5 to 7 in the Medya defense areas, with delegates representing various organizational structures of the party. The Congress decisions were made public on May 12, in response to Leader Abdullah Ocalan’s call for peace and a democratic society, issued on February 27.

The Congress made a historic decision to end armed struggle and cease all activities carried out in the name of the PKK, a move reflecting a fundamental shift in the party’s strategy and opening the door to a new phase of political and civil struggle.

In the closing speech, PKK co-founder Duran Kalkan stated that these decisions came after three days of intense discussions based on the ideas of Leader Abdullah Ocalan. He explained that implementing this decision at the highest level would pave the way for a gradual process aimed at enhancing democracy in the Middle East, stressing that this shift does not mark an end but a new resurgence of the Kurdish struggle in a more influential and effective direction.

Kalkan noted that the Congress focused on identifying the requirements for the next stage, including necessary changes and actionable steps. He emphasized that the progress made during the Congress would enable new developments in the Apoist line.

Ongoing struggle… A legacy spanning decades

Kalkan reviewed the party’s achievements over 47 years of struggle, asserting that the PKK did not achieve a single victory but a series of successes that changed Kurdish history, revived Kurdish identity, and solidified the consciousness of freedom.

He pointed out that, despite challenges, the party has preserved its existence thanks to the leader’s vision and leadership. He added that democracy in Turkey, and the presence of revolutionary and freedom movements, would not have been possible without the PKK’s struggle.

A new phase… A strategic transformation

Kalkan emphasized that the 12th Congress is not an end but a powerful and effective new beginning. The party is preparing to enter a political phase based on dialogue and democratic participation instead of armed struggle.

The PKK’s continued impact on political and intellectual landscape

Kalkan explained that the party’s influence has become a turning point in the Middle East and the world. The Kurdish liberation struggle was not just resistance but a redefinition of concepts such as democracy and social justice.

He noted that the state-driven socialism that collapsed in the 1980s failed to adapt to changing political realities, a failure Leader Abdullah Ocalan foresaw during the party’s third congress. He added that socialism has not disappeared but evolved into a new model more connected to democratic values and liberation movements, which contributed to the emergence of new political forces embracing Leader Ocalan’s vision of justice and freedom.

The Leader’s pioneering role in advancing liberation thought

Kalkan stressed that the leader’s ideas were not merely theoretical but the result of continuous practical experience. Leader Ocalan succeeded in translating his theories into reality through the PKK, which survived despite immense challenges.

He added that the Kurdish movement remains an inspiration to democratic movements worldwide, particularly workers’ movements, women’s liberation movements, and environmental movements, which have become active forces in global politics thanks to the democratic civilization model presented by the leader.

A global campaign to support the Leader and tts political impact

Kalkan pointed to the global campaign launched to secure Leader Ocalan’s physical freedom, highlighting that it reflects his profound impact on oppressed peoples, especially women and youth. He added that this campaign is not merely a gesture of solidarity but an extension of the liberation struggle initiated by the PKK, which continues to serve as a cornerstone for democratic movements in the region.

Change and transformation… The beginning of a new phase of struggle

Kalkan affirmed that the path is now paved for Leader Abdullah Ocalan to lead an ideological and strategic transformation within the movement, an endeavor he has pursued for over three decades. He clarified that this transformation is not limited to ideology but will be realized through the movement itself, which will serve as the central driver of comprehensive political and social change. This will occur through active democratic societal cadres and organizations that act as intermediaries for conveying the new vision to both society and the political system.

Democratic revolutionary cadres… The vanguard of the new phase

Kalkan emphasized that the success of this transformation depends on the ability of democratic revolutionary cadres and political organizations to absorb and practically implement the change. He clarified that the Congress decisions do not mean the transformation is complete but signal a launch toward a new phase that requires dedicated effort.

He added that although the PKK has decided to dissolve its organizational structure, it still retains its ideological and political spirit. The ideas and values established through the party’s struggle cannot be erased or destroyed, they are part of the legacy of leadership and martyrs and represent an irreversible struggle heritage.

The movement’s responsibility in achieving the transformation

Kalkan explained that the Apoist movement bears the responsibility for realizing the transformation, stressing that the struggle must become more inclusive and effective. It should go beyond supporting Leader Ocalan alone and extend to encompass the entire society. He affirmed that the necessary restructuring and changes must start within the movement before being transmitted to society through organizing and raising awareness among women, youth, and the general public, encouraging their active participation in this new phase.

Change does not mean the end… But a new beginning

Kalkan concluded his speech by affirming that the 12th Congress decisions do not mark the end of a phase but the beginning of a new transformation in the struggle. Their effective implementation will serve as a step toward revolutionary and liberating developments that align with the demands of the upcoming period.

He expressed deep faith that this transformation will lead to the realization of democratic social socialism. He called on all comrades to renew themselves through criticism and self-criticism, to understand the new phase with deep awareness, and to join the Apoist struggle with full strength.

In closing, Kalkan paid tribute to the party’s martyrs with respect and gratitude and directed a special salute to the leader, saying: "Long live Leader Apo… Long live Leader Apo."

A-H

ANHA