Message from Leader Abdullah Ocalan to international Kurdish culture festival

Leader Abdullah Ocalan sent a message to the 33rd International Kurdish Culture Festival, held in the city of Dortmund, Germany.

In his message, Leader Ocalan addressed the Kurdish people in Europe, affirming that forced migration has not severed their connection to their roots, as they preserve them through culture, language, work, and art.

He noted that Kurdish cultural festivals in Europe are not merely artistic and cultural events, but simultaneously embody the people's will to keep their roots alive despite exile.

The message, as conveyed by the Furat news agency, reads:

"Dear Comrades,

You who live in Europe, migrated there forcibly and under pressure, but with the progress of the process we initiated, your return to the homeland will open a door to a new beginning. Despite all difficulties, you have preserved your roots through your culture, language, efforts, and art, and you have continued the struggle on all fronts.

Today, in our homeland, and for building a democratic society, we strongly need your experience and solidarity, which emerged from your struggle in Europe. This homeland needs freedom, democracy, and a new social construction, and this process will be strengthened by the participation of those in exile.

The process we are currently working to develop is one that reconnects us all to our roots, land, and memory. Meeting at a cultural festival in Europe is not merely a cultural event but also an expression of the will that keeps our people's roots alive in exile.

Due to deliberate and systematic policies, the dynamics of youth in the homeland are directed outward, and to prevent this, a multi-faceted program must be developed. Under these conditions, the struggle on our land must remain our main objective.

When we are together, whether in exile or in the homeland, no force can stop this march. When the cultural and political heritage you have created unites with the struggle we wage here, a new era will begin on the path to freedom and democracy.

With love, faith, and boundless solidarity...

Abdullah Ocalan
Imrali Island"