Turkey's ruling alliance is set to introduce a draft law to parliament this Wednesday aimed at facilitating the dissolution of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) by enabling the return of thousands of former militants, an initiative designed to conclude a protracted conflict.
The proposed legislation, details of which emerged last November, focuses on the process for managing the return of PKK fighters and associated civilians from their bases in northern Iraq. It outlines the procedures for their engagement with the justice system and subsequent reintegration into society.
Lawmakers anticipate approving this legal framework within the week. This development represents a significant step toward resolving an insurgency that has resulted in over 40,000 fatalities since 1984, caused profound internal divisions, and contributed to regional instability in Iraq and Syria.
The bill enjoys widespread support across the political spectrum in parliament, notwithstanding public opinion polls indicating skepticism regarding its potential for lasting peace and sensitivities surrounding the return of former PKK members to Turkey. The draft legislation, titled "national solidarity and social integration," has been endorsed by President Tayyip Erdogan's ruling AK Party (AKP) and its nationalist MHP allies. The pro-Kurdish DEM Party and most other parties, including the main opposition, have also expressed their support.
Abdullah Guler, the AKP's parliamentary group head, confirmed to reporters that the bill would be submitted on Wednesday. The peace process between Turkey and the PKK commenced in late 2024 but faced significant setbacks earlier this year due to the Iran war and broader regional instability concerns.
The PKK declared its intention to disarm and disband in May of the previous year, following an appeal from its imprisoned leader, Abdullah Ocalan. The organization is classified as a terrorist entity by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union. Its insurgency began in 1984, initially advocating for an independent Kurdish state in southeastern Turkey, later shifting its focus to seeking autonomy and enhanced political rights for Kurds.
