In a significant period for the Kurdish movement, Co-Chair of the Democratic Regions Party (DBP) Çiğdem Kılıçgün Uçar has called on the Turkish state to take immediate and responsible steps towards building confidence, particularly following a recent call from Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan. Uçar asserted that the continued isolation of Öcalan is a crime against humanity that adversely affects society as a whole. "Isolation is a crime against humanity, and it poisons society as a whole," she said, stressing that the 'right to hope' is not merely a humanitarian right but one broadly recognized by international conventions.
Uçar emphasized that the Kurdish issue has transcended regional boundaries, evolving into a global concern that requires a robust, political response. This perspective aligns with Öcalan’s recent 'Call for Peace and a Democratic Society', which seeks to shift the Kurdish question from a context steeped in violence towards a viable legal and political resolution. Uçar remarked, "This universal right must be recognized and implemented immediately, without being subjected to bargaining or blackmail. If that happens, it will become clear that nothing has been understood from this process and that there is no genuine intention behind it."
Adding weight to these sentiments, Besê Hozat, co-chair of the KCK Executive Council, reflected on the fervent celebrations for Newroz this year, which she described as among the most glorious ever witnessed. Millions participated in celebrations across Kurdistan and beyond, driven in part by Öcalan's call for peace. "This year saw one of the most glorious Newroz celebrations of all time," Hozat stated, noting, "The people clearly expressed that Rêber Apo represents their political will and chanted that they see Rêber Apo’s freedom as their own freedom." Amed (Diyarbakir) witnessed over a million people gathering for this monumental event.
Newroz is not merely a festivity; it serves as a medium through which the Kurdish populace articulates its longstanding aspirations for freedom and democracy. Hozat underscored the importance of Öcalan's ongoing struggle for democratization, stating that he has fought tirelessly for 53 years towards achieving a democratic Turkey. She highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by the Turkish state, particularly in light of the isolation that continues to shroud Öcalan’s conditions. "The isolation should have been completely lifted and Rêber Apo should have regained his physical freedom after the call," she insisted, emphasizing the dire need for communication and legislative changes.
In light of these circumstances, the Freedom for Abdullah Öcalan Vigil—now in its 666th week—continues to draw attention. Originating in June 2012 in Strasbourg, this vigil has been described by artist Seydo Gimgim, who engaged with participants from Marseille, as vital to the Kurdish struggle. Gimgim articulated the significance of Öcalan’s ideas in fostering further action, saying, "This process is aimed at achieving the physical freedom of Mr. Öcalan. For that reason, as the Kurdish people, we must engage in this process by thoroughly reading and internalizing Abdullah Öcalan’s ideas."
Adding to this narrative, the Youth Assembly of Turkey’s pro-Kurdish People’s Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party has announced an extensive freedom march from Diyarbakir (Amed) to Ömerli (Amara), Öcalan's birthplace. The march, which spans over 200 kilometers, is set to culminate on April 4, coinciding with Öcalan’s 76th birthday. Lorîn Aryen Turgut, a coordinator of the event, urged young people to participate under the slogan: "We walk towards freedom with a democratic society."
This march aims to further Abdul Öcalan’s call for peace and political reconciliation, with Turgut stating that participation is crucial as these young individuals emerge as pioneers of progress. The DEM Party's MPs also attended the press briefing, emphasizing the current political climate and the urgent need for change facilitated through demonstrations like this one.
Concerns remain, however, regarding the Turkish government’s response to these movements. While Öcalan's call for peace aimed at paving a new path towards resolution and understanding, the government’s reluctance to embrace necessary legal reforms has drawn criticism. Hozat remarked, "Doing so would be the work of two, maybe three days," in reference to legislative adjustments needed for the rights to unfurl effectively.
As the Kurdish community stands equipped with the momentum from Newroz, the ongoing vigils, and organized marches, the demand for Öcalan’s freedom intensifies alongside calls for a legitimate peace process. Failure to acknowledge these demands risks not only the neglect of a historic opportunity but also deepens the trust deficit between the Kurdish community and the Turkish state—a gap that reflects a hundred years of struggle and aspiration for self-determination.
The stakes are high, and the stakes are clear: the future of democratic dialogue in Turkey may depend on how seriously the state engages with its Kurdish citizens and the aspirations they hold close to their hearts.
