Syrian Initiative calls for serious steps in peace process, democratic society building

The details of the legal framework for the Peace Process and Democratic Society Initiative are expected to be announced this week. Youssef Mal, a member of the Syrian Initiative for the Freedom of Leader Abdullah Ocalan, spoke to our agency about the context of this step and the prospects of the process.

Mal said that the changes taking place in the Middle East today carry the promise of changing the course of history through building peace and strengthening the foundations of a democratic society.

He added that the central issue in this context is the case of Leader Abdullah Ocalan and the project he launched on February 27, 2025. However, he noted that the Turkish state has not yet taken any serious steps in this direction and continues to exert its influence over developments in the region.

Mal stressed that “the existence of laws is the true guarantee for any process of construction, which is why these laws are of utmost importance, so that no one is subjected to arrest as happened to Selahattin Demirtaş and his colleagues, who were detained because of their intellectual and political struggle.”

Hopes Rest on Resolving the Kurdish Issue

He pointed out that many forces within Turkey support this project but live in fear because current Turkish laws criminalize any peaceful movement. He added: “The introduction of new laws would open the way for organized political activity and strengthen the protection of human rights.”

Mal noted that the release of Leader Abdullah Ocalan would represent a turning point in ending the century-long conflict between Kurds and Turks. He said: “Since the launch of the Peace Process and Democratic Society Initiative, the leader has not imposed himself on any party and has demanded nothing for the Kurdish people except their right to express their language, identity, and culture and to live with dignity. He is not a threat to anyone, nor does he build his strength at the expense of others.”

He added: “Today, as we stand at the centenary of the civil conflict in Northern Kurdistan and Turkey, this call comes with the same pain and suffering.”

He explained that “if an oppressor takes a step toward peace, it will be a weak step, and those who build their power on narrow partisan conflict will not extend their hand because they know that the establishment of a democratic system in Turkey would end their privileges.”

Youssef Mal concluded by saying: “The hopes of the Turkish and Kurdish peoples rest on resolving the Kurdish issue. We call for serious practical steps in the peace process and for building a democratic society in Northern Kurdistan and throughout Turkey.”

ANHA