The peace process in Türkiye has once again become a key topic of national and international discussion, with renewed engagement from political leaders, academics, and civil society actors. As conversations on conflict resolution continue, the evolving political landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for a sustainable peace.

One of the most notable developments has been the DEM Party’s İmralı Delegation holding two meetings with Abdullah Öcalan in December 2024 and January 2025. During these discussions, Öcalan highlighted the importance of equal citizenship, democratisation in Türkiye, and the strengthening of Kurdish-Turkish relations, reigniting debate on the future of the peace process.

In October 2024, MHP Leader Devlet Bahçeli proposed lifting Öcalan’s isolation to enable him to address the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) and formally declare the dissolution of the PKK. This unexpected statement shifted the discourse from military measures to political negotiations, raising questions about whether Türkiye is entering a new phase of reconciliation.

At the same time, CHP Leader Özgür Özel has emphasised the need for transparency in the peace process, stating:
"From the beginning, we have maintained that the appropriate platform for a resolution is the Turkish Grand National Assembly. We support the process being conducted transparently."

This conference will provide a vital platform for discussion, bringing together leading political figures, academics, and policymakers to explore the challenges and opportunities in achieving a lasting peace.

Academic and Societal Perspectives

Time: 17:00 - 19:00
Chair: Ceren Kenar
Venue: House of Commons, Committee Room 6

Speakers:

• Prof. Dr Vahap Coşkun – Peace processes and reconciliation efforts

• Nurhayat Altun - The prospects for reviving the Kurdish peace process in Turkey 

• Dr Esra Elmas – The role and participation of women in peace processes

• Lawyer Gizay Dulkadir – General amnesty and penal legislation in peace processes

Ceren Kenar is the founder of Stracom, a strategic communications and business consultancy firm that supports organizations in navigating complex political and media landscapes. Ceren’s career began in international journalism, where she reported, analyzed, and commented on global affairs with a focus on the Middle East and MENA region. Her bylines and contributions have appeared in some of the world’s most respected publications, including The Guardian, The New York Times, Foreign Policy, and BBC World.