Publication

This commentary examines the progress in the relationship between Turkey and its Kurdish population. In early 2013, the imprisoned leader of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) called for an end to violent activities against the Turkish state. The author notes that constitutional reform is progressing in Turkey. This may lead to greater protection of minority rights within a single, unified state. The author argues that the political ambitions of Prime Minister Erdogan and signs that the EU may restart Turkey's accession process are likely to promote a reconciliation between the PKK and the state.