The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) was established in the 20th century, the most turbulent century in history. The environment in which the PKK emerged was shaped by two world wars, real socialism, and the Cold War. Within this framework, the denial of Kurdish reality and the suppression of freedoms—particularly freedom of thought—occurred.
The reality of the socialist system profoundly influenced the PKK’s formation in terms of theory, program, strategy, and tactics. In the 1990s, due to internal factors, the collapse of real socialism, the crisis of identity suppression in the country, and the rise of free thought, the party lost its way and became increasingly disconnected. Thus, like others, it reached the end of its lifespan and requires dissolution.
The Kurdish-Turkish Relationship
Throughout over a thousand years of history, Turks and Kurds have always seen it as necessary to remain in a voluntary alliance to preserve their existence and resist hegemonic forces.
The two centuries of capitalist modernity aimed to dismantle this alliance. The forces influencing this process, along with their foundational classes, adopted this as a principle. This process accelerated with the homogenizing interpretations of the republic. The primary task today is to reorganize this historically fractured relationship with fraternity and unity, without abandoning our core values.
The Necessity of a Democratic Society Cannot Be Denied
The PKK has been the longest and most widespread armed rebellion in the history of the republic. Because the path to democratic politics was closed, the party grew stronger and gained support.
Nation-states and separatist federations—products of rigid nationalism through administrative autonomy and cultural solutions—cannot answer the needs of a historical communal society.
Respect for identities, freedom of thought, democratic organization, and socio-economic and political development for all components are only possible through a democratic society and political space.
The Second Century of the Republic
The second century of the republic can only achieve unity and lasting stability if crowned with democracy. There is no alternative to seeking and implementing systems outside the democratic path. Democratic consensus is the fundamental method.
The language of the era of peace and democratic society must evolve in line with this reality.
The Call for Disarmament and Dissolution
The call made by the esteemed government, the constructive stance of the President of the Republic, and the positive approaches of other sides have initiated this process. I, too, call for laying down arms in this process and assume historical responsibility for this appeal.
Just as all modern communities and parties whose existence has not yet ended hold their congresses and make decisions voluntarily, you must also convene your congress and decide: All groups must lay down their arms, and the party should dissolve itself. I salute all who believe in coexistence and heed this call.
February 25, 2025
