Berrin Sönmez, a prominent journalist and writer, has stressed the vital need for a legal framework that underscores social peace in Turkey amidst ongoing tensions surrounding the Kurdish question. In a recent interview with ANF, Sönmez remarked on Abdul Öcalan's 'Call for Peace and a Democratic Society,' emphasizing that this call should not be constrained to just the Kurdish issue. She articulated that the Turkish government's security-centric approach to the situation is inappropriate and fails to address the underlying demands for democratization.
"The demand to be an equal part of a democratic system was incredibly valuable. Even if calls for peace and democracy do not come from the state itself, this process—through becoming a social demand—can pressure those in power toward democratization," Sönmez asserted. She highlighted the government's preoccupation with disarmament rather than fostering genuine peace and democratic processes.
Uçar, the co-chair of the Democratic Regions Party (DBP), called on the government to take immediate, confidence-building steps following Öcalan’s initiatives. "Isolation is a crime against humanity, and it poisons society as a whole," stated Uçar. She underscored the necessity of recognizing the 'right to hope,' a principle backed by international conventions, which she argued should not be a subject of negotiation or bargaining.
"This right must be recognized and implemented immediately, without being subjected to bargaining or blackmail," Uçar expressed emphatically. She positioned the Kurdish question as a significant global issue with implications extending beyond Turkey, advocating for Öcalan’s role as pivotal in steering discussions away from conflict towards political resolutions.
Uçar emphasized the historic importance of the Kurdish Freedom Movement and its capacity as guarantors of a democratic society amid ongoing political strife. She noted that the government must align its actions with the intentions of dialogue to avoid wasting a historic opportunity for reform and reconciliation. Concrete steps must be taken, she asserted, signaling the need for an engaged populace in the ongoing discussions around peace.
While the Turkish government faces mounting internal and external pressures to shift its stance, Sönmez pointed out that there needs to be a significant transformation in governmental approaches to foster an environment conducive to peace. She indicated that achieving social peace is crucial not only for Kurdish communities but for all Turkish citizens, including those who may oppose the dialogues.
"A new system is being shaped both domestically and abroad, particularly in relation to Syria, Iraq, and Iran, where Israeli and American policies pose significant threats. This situation requires serious internal change. Will the government take these necessary steps? So far, it has taken none," she lamented.
The situation is exacerbated by a backdrop of political unrest, further highlighted by the recent arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. The circumstances surrounding this arrest have sparked massive protests and have drawn attention to issues of governance and the establishment’s approach towards the opposition in Turkey. Critics have described the mayor’s removal as a political coup that aims to weaken opposition support.
The Democratic Regions Party criticized İmamoğlu's ousting as a part of a broader trend of civil coups against pro-Kurdish and opposition leaders, intensifying divisions within Turkey. Similar actions have occurred in various Kurdish cities, drawing condemnation from multiple sectors of civil society and underscoring fears regarding the treatment of opposition voices.
Cate Faehrmann, an Australian MP, has also been vocal about the necessity of international support in addressing the peace process. In statements made to the New South Wales Parliament, Faehrmann called for Öcalan's immediate release, framing it as essential for advancing peace efforts in Turkey. She noted that the Kurdish leader's call for peace has resonated internationally, leading to expressions of solidarity from various countries.
"We demand the immediate release of Abdullah Öcalan. His statement is a historic step towards peace and recognition for the Kurdish and Turkish peoples in Turkey," Faehrmann reiterated, suggesting that Öcalan's freedom could motivate serious negotiation towards disarmament and political advancement.
Reflecting on the need for continued dialogue and concrete steps from the Turkish government, Uçar noted, "If this happens, everything will proceed more transparently and in front of society’s eyes; it will allow for public participation and the swift resolution of longstanding issues." However, the ongoing climate of uncertainty and distrust threatens to derail such efforts unless sustained and genuine measures toward democratization are upheld.
As calls for accountability amplify and the international community watches closely, the collective voice for peace and democratization in Turkey grows louder. The success of this process may hinge not only on the government’s immediate actions but also on societal mobilization across various sectors advocating for justice, equality, and recognition of rights.
