IRIA News

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Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) has declared the end of its four-decade-long armed insurgency against the Turkish state, announcing its disbandment and a shift towards democratic political engagement.

This decision, formalized during the group’s 12th Congress held in northern Iraq, follows a ceasefire declared on March 1, 2025, and a call from imprisoned PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan for the group to lay down arms and dissolve itself.

The Turkish government has welcomed the PKK’s decision as a significant step towards a “terror-free Turkey.” President Recep Tayyip Erdogan described Ocalan’s appeal as a “historic opportunity” and emphasized the need for all affiliated groups, including those in Syria and Iraq, to disband.

Government spokesperson Omer Celik reiterated this stance, stating that “regardless of whether they are called PKK, YPG or PYD, all extensions of the terrorist organization must dissolve themselves.”

The disarmament process will be closely monitored by intelligence agencies from Turkey, Iraq, and Syria. Each weapon will be cataloged, and discussions will take place regarding the method and location of their surrender. The final decision on handling these weapons will be made through a joint mechanism established by the three countries.

However, some challenges remain. The pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM) has called for the establishment of a parliamentary commission to oversee the disarmament process, a proposal that has not been positively received by the ruling AK Party.

An AK Party source emphasized that their sole focus is currently on disarmament and dissolution, stating, “There is no other agenda beyond disarmament and dissolution at this stage.”

Transformation towards a political faction

The PKK has been designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom. It initiated its insurgency in 1984, intending to establish an independent Kurdish state. Over time, the group’s objectives evolved towards seeking greater autonomy and cultural rights for Kurds within Turkey. The conflict and insurgent activities have resulted in over 40,000 deaths, predominantly among Kurdish civilians.

In a statement published by the PKK-affiliated ANF news agency, the group declared that it has “completed its historical mission” and would “end the method of armed struggle.” The statement emphasized that the Kurdish issue “can be resolved through democratic politics,” moving forward.

This announcement aligns with Ocalan’s February letter from prison, in which he stated, “There is no alternative to democracy in the pursuit and realization of a political system. Democratic consensus is the fundamental way.”

Regional implications

The regional implications of the PKK’s disbandment are significant. In Syria, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which includes the YPG, have stated that Ocalan’s call concerns the PKK and has “no connection to our forces.” However, SDF commander Mazloum Abdi acknowledged that peace between Ankara and the PKK could remove any pretext for Turkish attacks on areas under SDF control.

The decision also has potential economic benefits for Turkey. Following the PKK’s announcement, Turkish financial markets experienced a significant boost, with a 3% surge in stocks and gains in international bonds. The Turkish lira appreciated by 1.3% against the euro.

Skepticism among Turkish leaders

Despite the positive developments, skepticism remains among some Turkish leaders. Devlet Bahceli, leader of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), initially described the PKK’s ceasefire as “organizational consistency that benefits everyone.” However, he later dismissed the announcement, calling it “neither correct, nor balanced, nor appropriate,” and insisted that the group must “lay down arms immediately and unconditionally”.

The path forward will require careful navigation of political, legal, and social challenges. Analysts suggest that a sustainable peace process will depend on Turkey’s willingness to implement democratic reforms and address Kurdish demands for cultural and political rights.

The PKK’s disbandment marks a pivotal moment in Turkey’s history, offering a chance to resolve a long-standing conflict through democratic means. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this opportunity leads to lasting peace and reconciliation.