HÜDA PAR Chairman Zekeriya Yapıcıoğlu delivered a powerful speech at the "Workshop on Humanitarian Solutions to the Kurdish Issue," organized by the party’s Human Rights and Legal Affairs Directorate in Diyarbakır.

Addressing a diverse audience of academics, politicians, and civil society representatives, Yapıcıoğlu called for a sincere, inclusive, and lasting resolution to the Kurdish issue, emphasizing that no solution lacking a humanitarian foundation can be realistic or permanent.

A Long-Standing Issue Demanding Resolution

Yapıcıoğlu highlighted that the Kurdish issue has remained unresolved for over a century, persisting despite numerous discussions, negotiations, and policy changes. He noted that while different groups interpret the problem in various ways, there is a general consensus that the issue exists and must be effectively addressed.

"Some view the Kurdish issue purely as a matter of terrorism, security, and public order. Others see it as an economic problem, stemming from the underdevelopment of Kurdish-populated regions. Some argue it originates from the historical denial of Kurdish identity and culture, while others believe the erosion of Islamic brotherhood between Turks and Kurds has contributed to the problem. Regardless of these differing perspectives, there is one undeniable truth: this issue must be solved," Yapıcıoğlu stated.

Commitment to Concrete Action, Not Just Words

Yapıcıoğlu assured attendees that the workshop was not just an academic exercise but a meaningful step toward a tangible resolution.

"For two days, esteemed scholars, activists, and politicians will present their ideas and proposals on how to solve this long-standing issue. As HÜDA PAR, we will do everything in our power to benefit from these discussions. These ideas will not simply remain on these banners—we will compile them into a book and ensure that policymakers and decision-makers engage with them," he declared.

To reinforce his commitment, he emphasized that the party would actively push for the implementation of the recommendations that emerge from the discussions, urging all relevant stakeholders to contribute to the process.

Kurds: An Integral Part of the Nation, Not Outsiders

Providing historical context, Yapıcıoğlu stressed that Kurds are not outsiders in Turkey but rather one of the nation’s founding peoples.

"Kurds are neither tenants nor refugees in this land; they are among the foundational elements of this state. For centuries, they lived alongside other Muslim communities in harmony. However, with the rise of nation-state ideologies, Kurds were suddenly seen as a problem rather than an integral part of the country. Their identity was denied, their language was suppressed, and their cultural rights were ignored," he explained.

He highlighted key historical moments where Kurdish-Turkish unity played a decisive role in shaping history, including the Battle of Malazgirt in 1071, where Kurdish and Turkish forces fought together, opening the gates of Anatolia; the Ottoman-Safavid War in 1514, which helped unify a significant part of the Islamic world; and the Gallipoli Campaign in 1915, where Kurds and Turks stood side by side to defend the Dardanelles from Western imperialists.

"These were pivotal moments in history. However, in modern times, this unity has eroded, and the Kurdish issue has been framed as a problem rather than an opportunity to strengthen our society," he said.

Justice: The Foundation for Lasting Peace

Yapıcıoğlu made it clear that justice must be at the heart of any solution and criticized past failed attempts to address the Kurdish issue. He argued that misdiagnosing the problem had led to ineffective solutions, deepening the crisis rather than resolving it.

"Brotherhood must be more than just words—it must have legal and political recognition. Without justice, unity cannot be sustained. Without recognizing the rightful place of the Kurdish people, peace will remain elusive," he stated.

He pointed out that piecemeal reforms and short-term measures had failed to address the root causes of the problem. He urged politicians and decision-makers to approach the issue with genuine sincerity and determination, rather than using it as a tool for political maneuvering.

"If we diagnose the problem correctly, the solution is simple. But if we continue to misdiagnose it, the issue will become even more complex and difficult to resolve. We cannot afford to let this problem linger any longer," he warned.

A Regional and Humanitarian Perspective

Yapıcıoğlu also underscored that the Kurdish issue extends beyond Turkey’s borders and affects the broader Middle East. Given that Kurds live across Turkey, Iraq, Syria, and Iran, he argued that resolving the issue in Turkey could have positive ripple effects throughout the region.

"The geography where Kurds live is at the heart of the Islamic world. If this issue remains unresolved, it will continue to destabilize not just Turkey but the entire region. However, a fair and just solution will bring relief not only to Kurds but to millions across the Middle East," he said.

The Urgency for Immediate Action

Concluding his speech, Yapıcıoğlu stressed the need for immediate action, warning against further delays and political stagnation.

"We must resolve this issue through justice and peaceful means. The cost of inaction is far too great—it leads to instability, economic hardship, and lost generations. We cannot continue to ignore this reality," he cautioned.

He reiterated that solving the Kurdish issue is not an impossible task, stating that the two most critical elements needed are sincerity and political will.

"If we truly desire justice—if we genuinely want for our Kurdish brothers what we want for ourselves—then the solution is within reach. The Messenger of Allah, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), has already shown us the path to justice and unity. If we embrace those principles, there will be no unsolvable problems between us," he affirmed.

A Call for Collective Responsibility

Yapıcıoğlu ended his speech by thanking all participants and urging politicians, civil society organizations, and religious leaders to take collective responsibility for resolving the Kurdish issue.

"This is not just an issue for Kurds of a particular political background or for Turkey alone. It is an issue for everyone who stands for human rights, justice, and peace. We must all take responsibility and work toward a just and lasting resolution," he concluded.

The workshop will continue with panel discussions and roundtable sessions, culminating in a final declaration summarizing key findings and recommendations for addressing the Kurdish issue. (ILKHA)