The Coordination of the Kurdistan Women’s Communities (KJK) said in a statement that “Öcalan’s role is central as both the ‘chief negotiator’ and political leader in efforts toward peace and democratic reform.” The KJK argued that without his release and the creation of equal conditions for negotiations, “the development of a solution is not possible.”
The statement recalled Öcalan’s 27 February ‘Peace and Democratic Society Call,’ which was presented as a historic initiative for coexistence in Turkey and the Middle East. The KJK said that Öcalan had already taken “unilateral goodwill steps,” including declaring an end to armed struggle and symbolically burning weapons, in order to lay the foundations for peace.
The KJK highlighted developments such as the Democratic Party (DEM) delegation’s visits to İmralı, inter-party talks, and the establishment of a parliamentary commission as early progress. However, the group criticized the government for failing to take further concrete steps, accusing it of prioritizing political calculations over democratization.
The statement added that denial of Kurdish identity, language, and cultural rights continues to block progress, while trustee appointments in municipalities and military operations undermine confidence in the peace process.
KJK maintained that Öcalan’s continued isolation “prevents the transition to the second phase of negotiations,” and insisted that his physical freedom is necessary for meaningful dialogue and a lasting settlement.
The group called on the parliamentary ‘Commission for National Solidarity, Brotherhood and Democracy’ to engage directly with Öcalan and to prepare legal frameworks for a peaceful and democratic solution, rather than focusing solely on disarmament. It also urged the Turkish Grand National Assembly to pass laws on freedom and democratic integration, describing them as essential for resolving the Kurdish question.
The KJK emphasized that peace cannot be achieved by waiting for state action alone, urging civil society, democratic movements, and especially women to intensify their efforts. The organization also called for mass protests and events to mark the 28th anniversary of the October 9 international operation that led to Öcalan’s abduction.