Third International Conference on EU Turkey and the Kurds

The Third International Conference on the EU, Turkey and the Kurds will be held in Brussels, 16-17 October 2006. The EU Turkey Civic Commission (EUTCC) has this year chosen as the motto and main theme for the Conference: Time for Justice, Dialogue and Solution.

On Turkey’s way to Europe there are many problems to resolve, e.g. increasing scepticism in Europe, lack of religious freedom and free speech, the role of the military and the Cyprus problem. The EU Turkey Civic Commission is supportive of Turkey’s decision to become a member of the European Union, provided of course that Turkey complies fully with the political criteria for accession.

The developments both in Europe and Turkey over the last year indicate that the time has come for a solution of the single, most important issue that represents a persistent obstacle for Turkey developing into a fully democratic country, with European standards of human rights and respect for minorities, - the Kurdish Problem. This problem is the result of more than eighty years of a harsh assimilation policy and denial of the rights of its Kurdish population.

The wounds run deep and will not be easily healed. Differences in culture and language must come to be seen as positive, and not as a threat to an antiquated, monolithic state structure. In addition, fundamental changes in Turkey’s Constitution and legislation are needed, and these changes must be solidly applied and implemented in everyday life. This requires time, even with the best of will and ability among the political leadership.

The steps taken so far by the Turkish government have only scratched the surface. The political statement of Prime Minister Erdogan in August 2005, recognising the Kurdish problem and promising a solution, has so far remained just idle words. No effective new steps have been taken to resolve the Kurdish problem. In fact, some of the steps taken are regressive, e.g. the new Penal Code and the new Anti-Terror law, as well as Erdogan’s support of the  security forces, killing innocent bystanders, including children, during demonstrations in the Kurdish region.

The EUTCC believes that now is the Time for Justice, to establish a new policy and new initiatives in order to secure justice for the Kurdish people, as well as for the Turkish population as a whole. The judiciary needs a complete overhaul. Experience over the last year has shown that both public prosecutors and many judges remain blind to the substantial legal reforms that have been made in the statute books. Instead they seem to be subservient to dictates by nationalistic and military groupings, rather than applying European human rights standards that are now part of Turkish law.

The legislation, at all levels, must be cleansed of all discriminatory elements that prevent minority groups from enjoying their rights. It is not encouraging that the government, so far, obstinately refuses to accept the internationally recognised definition of minorities and the rights of such minorities. On the other hand, it is also counterproductive when the EU institutions are trying to hide the Kurdish problem under a carpet of diplomacy, e.g. by describing this complex problem as “the problems in the South-east”.
 
The EUTCC also believes that now is the Time for Dialogue, that a genuine, fair and lasting solution of the Kurdish problem can only be achieved through dialogue. Experience from other parts of the world, including Europe (e.g. Northern Ireland, the Basque problem, Montenegro, Kosovo), have shown that a solution of ethnic, nationalistic and religious conflicts cannot be imposed from the top down. The people most involved in the problem must contribute to a solution, and this can only come about through peaceful dialogue and negotiations. In the case of Turkey, the EU should be able to play an important role in establishing the parameters of such a dialogue, and in seeing it through to a successful completion. But the start must come now. Turkey cannot enter the EU without peace within its borders.

The EUTCC further believes that now is the Time for Solution of the Kurdish problem. It believes a solution is possible. Many options are available. The political models range from some form of autonomy or devolved authority at the local level, to various forms of federalism. More important in the initial stages is to establish a plan, a program and an environment based on a genuine respect for the rights of the Kurdish population.

This would include social and cultural rights, non-discrimination, a fair election system, full freedom of expression and of association, and in general all steps that are required in order to comply with the Copenhagen criteria, specifically the obligation to respect and promote the rights of minority groups.