PKK leader defines democratic integration as state acceptance of autonomy

Bese Hozat, a leader within the KCK/PKK, has defined the concept of ‘democratic integration’ as the state’s acceptance of local democracy, self-governance, and democratic autonomy. Speaking regarding processes in Syria, Hozat stated that such integration is only possible within a democratic republic, noting that current centralized systems in Damascus do not allow for such developments.

In response to these statements, Erhan Usta, Deputy Chairman of the İYİ Party, questioned the Turkish government regarding the meaning of terms like ‘democratic republic’ and ‘democratic integration’ used during ongoing political processes. Usta demanded transparency, asking if the government has made any commitments that would alter Turkey’s unitary structure or existing administrative order. He suggested that silence from the government in the face of such definitions could imply an agreement to change the country’s fundamental structure.