Can Turkey's new PKK law bring peace?

One year ago, the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) extinguished its weapons in a symbolic ceremony, signaling a potential willingness to disband. In response, parliament has approved a bill proposed by the conservative Islamic governing party AKP and its ultranationalist ally. This legislation, officially titled the Law on Strengthening National Solidarity and Social Integration, aims to provide the legal framework for the ongoing peace process.

A majority of 467 out of 592 MPs voted in favor of the bill, which could lead to the suspension of sentences for PKK members under specific conditions. The bill stipulates that sentences for up to 15 years of imprisonment would be suspended for five years, while longer or life sentences would have a 10-year suspension. The provisions also include a hold on ongoing investigations.

Up to 3,600 prisoners may benefit from this measure, contingent upon the complete disbanding of the PKK and the surrender of all weapons and ammunition. These conditions must be verified by Turkish authorities and subsequently confirmed by the National Security Council, chaired by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Notably, PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan, convicted before the current penal code, remains exempt.

The bill was met with a mix of support and criticism. While the pro-Kurdish Democratic Society Party (DEM) views it as a necessary first step, it calls for further reforms. Conversely, the ultranationalist opposition party IYI vehemently opposes the process, criticizing what it perceives as an overly conciliatory stance towards the PKK founder.

The debate underscores the deep divides within Turkish society, with the ultranationalist IYI party now among the most important supporters of the peace process, a shift influenced by the changing regional security landscape. Notable factors include the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, the conflict in Gaza, and the Israel-Iran tensions.

Pro-government media reports suggest that the legislation could positively impact Turkey's domestic and foreign policies by fostering a more stable relationship with the Kurdish population within Turkey's borders. However, critics argue that the law falls short of offering comprehensive democratic solutions to the Kurdish issue, as it fails to address the criminalization of returning fighters and exiled politicians.