Turkey prepares framework law for next phase of 'terror-free Türkiye' initiative

Turkey's parliament is set to debate a new framework law that outlines the roadmap for the next phase of the "terror-free Türkiye" initiative. This initiative, ongoing for two years, is now moving towards the disarmament and dissolution of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK).

The proposed law primarily addresses the status of PKK members, both those currently imprisoned and those residing abroad, particularly in northern Iraq. While not offering a full amnesty, the legislation intends to initiate proceedings for the reassessment of PKK members. It is expected to lead to reduced sentences for individuals who surrender to state authorities and will introduce "return and integration mechanisms" for members living outside Turkey.

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remove the obstacle of terrorism and prepare Türkiye for the future in an environment of peace, brotherhood, unity and integrity.

Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş has begun consultations with political parties to expedite the process, meeting with leaders from the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party), and the Republican People’s Party (CHP). The political landscape shows a division, with the ruling People's Alliance parties, the Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and the MHP, supporting the initiative, while other opposition parties have expressed reservations or sought to obstruct it.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has emphasized the goal of "removing the obstacle of terrorism" to prepare Turkey for a future of "peace, brotherhood, unity and integrity." He has also warned against those attempting to exploit or hinder the process. MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli has urged broad "social consensus" for the initiative, advocating for a unifying vision for the nation's future.

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a social consensus