The tragedy of the Kurds
Article Abstract:
Turkey has succeeded in capturing Kurdish PKK leader, Abdullah Ocalan, and the government appears to see this as a vindication of its policy, yet the Kurdish problem will only be solved if the Kurds are allowed a fair deal. There are some 25 million Kurds in four countries, and they are not likely to be permitted to set up an independent Kurdistan. They will need some autonomy if they are to be contented. Turkey's Kurds had already started a move toward conciliation prior to the arrest of Ocalan, and his arrest provides an opportunity for the PKK to change its policies.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 1999
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An ancient tragedy
Article Abstract:
The capture of Kurdish leader, Abdullah Ocalan, highlights the struggle of Turkish Kurds and those from Iran, Iraq and Syria to achieve cultural and political expression. Turkey will hold a show trial, and Ocalan is likely to be judged guilty. He has called for Kurdish autonomy and for an independent state for the Kurds His Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK) has also been involved in bomb attacks and civilian deaths. Kurds arouse little sympathy among the Turkish electorate, and an election campaign is under way in Turkey.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 1999
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Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
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