Parliament's anti-terror unit plans third assembly
In August 2025, the "National Solidarity, Brotherhood and Democracy Commission" was formed in the Turkish Grand National Assembly with a mission to address the legal and political aspects of the "terror-free Turkey" process. The commission, which aims to support the elimination of terrorism and foster social cohesion, national unity, and brotherhood, is a crucial institutional body guiding Turkey's peaceful transition away from armed conflict.
The commission, initially planned to have 51 members, began work with 48 due to the IYI Party's refusal to nominate members. The commission includes deputies from 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 New Path Party, HUDA PAR, YRP, TİP, EMEP, and DSP, as well as DP.
The commission held its first meeting on August 5, 2025, chaired by the Parliament Speaker, with future meetings planned. Key institutions, such as the Interior Ministry, Defense Ministry, and National Intelligence Organization, have provided briefings, while stakeholders affected by the process, such as families of terror victims, have shared their statements.
Although the commission itself will not directly propose legislation, it compiles reports and recommendations, which are referred to parliamentary subcommittees and ultimately to the General Assembly for decision-making. Its work includes considering amendments to counterterrorism laws and the Turkish Penal Code, particularly regarding sentencing and regulations for former PKK members who surrender.
The commission's mandate extends through December 31, 2025, with possible extensions. The second meeting was held behind closed doors, citing national security concerns, and it was decided the minutes would remain classified for 10 years.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, Defense Minister Yasar Gueler, and intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin attended the commission's second meeting by invitation. Under the working principles, members appointed by Kurtulmus will chair meetings in his absence on a rotating basis.
In a statement ahead of the meeting, Parliament Speaker and commission head Numan Kurtulmus emphasized the need to take their steps very carefully and express their views very clearly to seize this historic opportunity. The PKK is expected to continue disarming in stages until the end of the year.
The CHP has nominated Umut Akdogan, while the DEM Party has named Celal Firat. The AKP's new member has not been determined yet. The commission will convene for the third time on Aug 12 in the parliament.
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