Kurdish organizations in Switzerland have initiated a wide-ranging discussion process on implementing the construction of a democratic society. The umbrella organizations CDK-S and YJK-S invited participants to a two-day meeting at the Rojava Cultural Center in Kloten. Representatives of local councils, communes, and various Kurdish institutions took part in the gathering, the aim of which is to discuss ways to translate the current political concepts of the Kurdish movement into concrete social structures.
The process is linked to the perspective of a democratic society formulated by Abdullah Öcalan, which has been increasingly discussed within the Kurdish movement since the peace call of the PKK founder in February 2025. In Switzerland, numerous events, forums, and conferences have recently taken place on this topic.
Kartal: A phase of fundamental changes
Speaking at the meeting in Kloten, KONGRA-GEL co-chair Remzi Kartal emphasized that the Kurdish movement is entering a phase of fundamental transformation: “Öcalan’s criticism is known to us. Our central task is the construction of a democratic society.” Kartal highlighted that the diaspora in particular plays an important role in this process. Switzerland, he said, offers favorable conditions due to its structures for practically implementing new forms of organization. At the same time, he underlined the importance of Kurdish unity: “Those who distance themselves from national unity will lose. We must change our language and our political style.”
Yûsif on developments in Rojava
Experiences from Rojava were also a central topic. Perwîn Yûsif, co-chair of the Democratic Union Party (PYD), referred to developments in northeastern Syria so far and stressed that the construction of political and social structures is a long-term process that requires continuous adaptation. “We have been in a process of construction for years. There are shortcomings, but we are working to overcome them,” Yûsif said. At the same time, she emphasized the need to adapt to changing conditions and to further advance social organization. Regarding the current situation in Syria, the Kurdish politician referred to ongoing talks with the transitional government in Damascus. “The talks have not yet been concluded but are continuing. At the same time, it remains crucial to organize the population more strongly in all areas,” she added.
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