QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Observers are calling the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK)’s recent decision to dissolve itself and end over 40 years of armed struggle against the Turkish state a “historic move that could reshape the political landscape of the region.”
In the final statement of its 12th conference, held from May 5 to 7, the PKK announced the dismantling of its organizational structure and a definitive end to its armed campaign.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan welcomed the announcement following a cabinet meeting in Ankara, describing it as “a highly significant step” and “a major turning point in Ankara’s efforts to build a terrorism-free state.”
The renewed peace initiative was originally proposed by Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli late in 2024. In February, PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan delivered what was described as a “historic” message, urging the party to dissolve and fully engage in the peace process.
A Political and military shift
Syrian researcher Jumaa Mohammad views the PKK’s announcement as “a historic decision that will reshape the political landscape of the region and marks a qualitative shift toward political solutions.”
Speaking to North Press, Mohammad said the move constitutes “a major turning point with direct implications for both the political and military arenas, especially in Syria.”
He explained that the decision is likely to influence the balance of power in eastern Syria, potentially reshaping internal alliances within the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
It could also pave the way for new negotiations with either Damascus or Ankara, and strengthen prospects for the March agreement between SDF commander Mazloum Abdi and Syrian Transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa regarding the transitional phase.
SDF commander Mazloum Abdi commented on the PKK decision via X platform, saying, “We are confident this step will open the door to a new phase of politics and peace in the region.”
Mohammad noted that Turkey, which has long considered the PKK a national security threat, may now view this development as an opportunity to reduce military tensions in Kurdish-held areas in Syria.
Mohammad emphasized that successful implementation of this decision would signal a move away from a revolutionary mindset toward an institutional one, opening the door for inclusive political models such as federalism or decentralization within existing states.
He concluded by suggesting that the region might be on the verge of a new phase—one where violence becomes less viable, and issues like development, peace, and stability take precedence. “These transformations may plant the seeds of hope not only for Syria but for the entire conflict-ridden region.”
A rare opportunity for peace
Anas Judeh, a Syrian political figure and head of the National Building Movement, called the PKK’s announcement “a remarkable regional shift” and a rare chance to rethink the paths of conflict and negotiation.
In comments to North Press, Judeh said the decision offers the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) and the SDF greater political space, freeing them from longstanding Turkish accusations of terrorism and ties to the PKK. “With these claims now void, Turkey and the new Syrian leadership have fewer excuses to delay entering a clear political process toward a decentralized, pluralistic state.”
If the Turkish peace process gains momentum and Ankara’s relationship with the AANES improves, Judeh believes this development could lead to more realistic intra-Syrian understandings, reduced tensions in the northeast, and collaborative efforts to build a fair decentralized governance model within a united Syria.
He emphasized the importance of moving beyond “zero-sum narratives” and embracing a shared framework based on partnership and citizenship.
What is the PKK’s relationship with the SDF?
Walid Jouli, a researcher at the Qamishli-based al-Forat Center for Studies, said the PKK’s congress and its outcomes are likely to impact regional balances due to the party’s military and political weight.
However, he cautioned against equating the PKK’s internal decisions with direct consequences for Syrian Kurdish forces. “There’s no organizational link between the PKK and the Syrian Democratic Forces or the People’s and Women’s Protection Units (YPG/YPJ),” Jouli stated.
He emphasized that the SDF is currently focused on counterterrorism operations and contributing to Syria’s political future.
Jouli also pointed out the structural differences between Turkey and Syria—particularly in terms of institutions, security apparatuses, and constitutional frameworks—which make it unrealistic to expect that the Turkish model can be replicated in Syria.