The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) has formally declared the dissolution of its organizational structure and the end of its decades-long armed struggle, marking a potential turning point in the conflict that has gripped Turkiye and its border regions since the 1980s.

The announcement was made during the PKK’s 12th Congress, held from 5 to 7 May at two undisclosed locations in northern Iraq. According to the final declaration, released on 12 May by the Congress Board, the decision reflects the group’s belief that it has fulfilled its historical mission and advanced the Kurdish issue to a point where it can now be resolved through democratic politics.

The Congress resolved that all activities under the PKK’s name would cease, with the disarmament and implementation of the transition to be overseen by Abdullah Ocalan, the group’s imprisoned founder and ideological leader. Ocalan, held in solitary confinement on Turkiye’s Imrali Island since his capture in 1999, had called for the group to disband as early as February 2025. The decision follows a recent political opening in Ankara and increasing pressure from Turkiye’s military campaign against the group.

Turkiye’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) welcomed the announcement. Omer Celik, spokesperson for the AKP, described the declaration as “the opening of a new era” in Turkish politics. Writing on X, Celik emphasized that the move toward a “terror-free Turkiye” could revitalize political dialogue, strengthen democracy, and reinforce national unity.

He noted that legitimate political channels, especially the Grand National Assembly, would now serve as the main arena for resolving long-standing issues and urged all citizens to embrace a common identity under the Republic of Turkiye.

The PKK, designated a terrorist organization by Turkiye, the US, the EU, and the UK, has been involved in a bloody conflict that has claimed an estimated 40,000 lives. Its activities have often extended beyond Turkiye’s borders into Syria and Iraq, complicating regional stability.

The Cradle Media report