Syrian Initiative: We demand international recognition of Kurdish rights, negotiations with leader

On the occasion of International Human Rights Day, the Syrian Initiative for the Leader Abdullah Ocalan's Freedom issued a statement in front of its center in Qamishlo. The statement was read by Helen Hassen; the member of the Syrian Lawyers' Initiative for Defending the Leader Abdullah Ocalan, and Jian Erkandi; the member of the Syrian Initiative for the Leader Abdullah Ocalan's Freedom, in the presence of members of the Initiative, the Democratic Society Movement, the Armenian Social Council, the Democratic Islam Conference, journalists, and lawyers.

The statement affirmed that "the fundamental rights stipulated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights are normal and inherent rights of all peoples, and are not privileges granted by states." It criticized "the blatant violations of Article 1 of the two International Covenants, which guarantees the right of peoples to self-determination."

The statement highlighted the suffering of the Kurdish people; the division and fragmentation of their historical homeland and decades of policies of marginalization, denial, and displacement. It held the international powers morally and legally responsible for this reality that can no longer be ignored.

The statement also recalled "the call for peace and the democratic society launched by the leader Abdullah Ocalan last February, describing it as a historic appeal and a sincere call for peace. However, it has not been met with serious steps from the Turkish state, which undermines the chances for peace and increases the risk of renewed conflict eruption."

In conclusion, the Initiative addressed an appeal to the world public opinion and forces defending human rights, emphasizing three key points:

Turkey's continued policy of denial poses a direct threat to regional peace and security.

Recognizing the legitimate rights of the Kurdish people in Syria, Turkey, and Iran (identity, culture, and political participation) is a fundamental condition for achieving justice.

Opening negotiations with the leader Abdullah Ocalan is a necessary step to launch a peaceful political process in accordance with international law.

The statement affirmed that "just peace can only be achieved through respect for the rights of peoples and an end to policies of exclusion," expressing its conviction that the voice of freedom will remain stronger than all attempts at repression, and that the Kurdish people will continue their legitimate struggle until their rights are realized."

The statement concluded by calling for "the implementation of the right to hope, as a proactive step to create a positive atmosphere that paves the way for direct negotiations between the Turkish state and the leader Abdullah Ocalan, given his central and fundamental role in representing the Kurdish people."

J.J

ANHA