TURKEY'S UNDERWAY EFFORTS TO ELIMINATE TERRORISM
Discourse on the Foundation of a 'Terror-Free Turkey' Commission
In a pivotal move, Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş convened discussions on June 24 with leaders from six political parties to establish a new anti-terrorism parliamentary commission. This initiative forms part of the government's mission to establish a "terror-free" Turkey.
Participating parties included the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), the Peoples' Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party), the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), the İYİ (Good) Party, and the New Path Party.
Discussions revolved around the commission's organizational structure, legal foundation, and timeline. The DEM Party has pressure for the commission to be promptly established before the parliament's summer recess in July to ensure a united front against terrorism.
During the talks, parties exchanged opinions on whether the body should be created through a special law or emulate earlier mechanisms. Ultimately, Kurtulmuş requested that each party submit their position in writing within a week so he could compile a draft framework incorporating all viewpoints and share it for further dialogue.
In earlier events, the MHP head, Devlet Bahçeli, put forward the commission's proposal and advocated for a dialogue with jailed PKK leader Öcalan. Negotiations between Öcalan and Turkish officials began on Dec. 28, 2024, and culminated in a disarmament declaration by the terror group.
The PKK is designated a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union. The commission's establishment is seen as the third phase of a broader anti-terrorism initiative, with future steps focusing on legal reforms and social reconciliation.
The upcoming fourth phase is predicted to involve "democratization" attempts and introducing legislation promoting unity through parliament. Parliamentarians will reportedly debate and implement reforms to ameliorate political tensions.
The final stage includes reintegrating former PKK members into society. Careful management will be required to maintain the support of the families of fallen soldiers without alienating them.
These developments signify a significant opportunity for a lasting peace and security, with parliament urged to take decisive and collaborative action[5][4][2].
- The forthcoming "democratization" attempts and legislative reforms promoting unity, as part of the fourth phase, are likely to be centered around policy-and-legislation debates among parliamentarians.
- The general news of Turkey's ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorism extends beyond the anti-terrorism commission and includes future steps focused on legislative changes and social reconciliation.
