Sırrı Süreyya Önder: Martyr of Peace and Democracy

In recent chapters of Turkish political history, the name Sırrı Süreyya Önder emerged as a prominent figure who devoted his life to the cause of peace and democracy.

 Of Turkmen origin, Önder was a lifelong proponent of peaceful coexistence among peoples. He played a significant role on the political stage, using art as a tool for purposeful critique and to raise public consciousness. He served as a member of the Turkish Grand National Assembly and was part of the İmralı peace delegation, representing the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party.

 Biography

 Sırrı Süreyya Önder was born on July 7, 1962, in the city of Sêmsûr (Adıyaman), in Northern Kurdistan, into a family of Turkmen descent. His father, a trade unionist and social activist, laid the foundation for Önder’s early engagement in political activism. He completed his primary education in Sêmsûr and graduated from the Faculty of Journalism and Broadcasting at Ankara University.

 In 1976, during his youth, Önder met Abdullah Ocalan, the Kurdish leader, which marked a significant turning point in his political orientation and identity. Following the military coup of September 12, 1980, he was arrested for his political activities and spent several years in prison, where he endured severe torture—experiences that deepened his political resilience and humanitarian convictions.

 A Journey of Struggle and Commitment

 Önder dedicated his life to political and social engagement, a commitment that also resonated in his artistic work. He made his political debut during the 2011 general elections in Istanbul as an independent candidate backed by the "Labour, Democracy and Freedom" alliance, and was elected to Parliament.

 He was among the founding members of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) and later reentered Parliament under the banner of the DEM Party, eventually serving as Deputy Speaker of the Turkish Parliament.

 Known for his candid and uncompromising rhetoric, Önder advocated for Kurdish rights, workers’ rights, press freedom, gender equality, and environmental protection. A staunch defender of the marginalized, he repeatedly faced imprisonment and legal harassment as a result of his unwavering stance.

 Beyond politics, he was a significant figure in the arts and cinema, producing films and short stories that carried potent political and social messages.

 His Role in the Peace Process

 A key figure in the peace negotiations, Önder played a vital role during the 2013 peace process, participating in direct talks with Abdullah calan on İmralı Island. He was a tireless advocate for building a genuine and inclusive social peace.

 On Newroz Day 2013 in Amed,  Önder famously read leader Ocalan’s historic message before a crowd of millions, cementing his place as a symbol of the peace initiative.

 In 2025, during renewed peace efforts, Önder once again emphasized the importance of inclusive peace involving all societal components. He became, metaphorically, the hammer that struck the bell of peace.

 Martyrdom and Legacy

 Önder spent many years imprisoned by the Turkish state and endured harsh conditions that left lasting impacts on his health. From 2020 onward, his health steadily declined due to cardiac and nutritional complications.

 Despite his deteriorating health, he remained active—visiting community centers, delivering lectures, and maintaining his presence in civil society. He continued to support leader Abdullah Ocalan’s call for peace and democratic society.

 On April 15, 2025, Önder suffered a sudden heart attack and was hospitalized. Despite intensive medical care, his condition worsened. After 18 days in Florence Nightingale Hospital, he passed away on May 3, 2025, at the age of 62.

 He is remembered as a martyr for peace and democracy—a steadfast voice for justice, coexistence, and the dignity of all peoples.

 a.k

ANHA