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AFP reported that the Turkish parliament approved the legislation by a vote of 468 in favour to 88 against with six abstentions on Monday. The measure suspends prosecutions or sentences for five to 10 years for PKK-linked individuals who agree to reintegrate into civilian life and renounce violence. It explicitly rules out any total amnesty and bars application to those convicted of murder or other grave offenses while making no reference to Ocalan himself.
Reuters reported earlier in the week that the ruling alliance had submitted the 12-article draft law on Aug. 5 to facilitate the return of former militants and civilians from hideouts in northern Iraq. The bill protects many who were not involved in killings from prosecution provided they return within six months of the law’s passage. It also outlines procedures for disarmament and rehabilitation as the PKK pursues a path toward dissolution following its ceasefire declaration earlier this year.
Assessments shared with AFP place the initial number of detainees who could benefit from the measure at around 3,500. The legislation builds on Ocalan’s February 2025 call for the group to lay down arms after nearly three decades in prison on Imrali island. Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz underscored in related statements that the scope remains tightly restricted to exclude serious criminals.
The measure received backing from the ruling Justice and Development Party along with support from the pro-Kurdish DEM party during parliamentary debate. Reuters coverage noted that polls have shown scepticism among segments of the public that the initiative will deliver lasting peace. The law shifts the peace process into a legislative phase after months of preliminary contacts.
A Reuters tally places the death toll from the PKK insurgency at more than 40,000 since the group launched its armed campaign in 1984. Successive Turkish governments have attempted various reconciliation tracks over the years with limited success until the current opening. The bill arrives as the PKK has signaled willingness to disband and complete its disarmament under monitored conditions.
Parliamentary records further indicate the legislation will now proceed to implementation stages overseen by relevant ministries. It includes provisions for social reintegration programmes aimed at former militants who meet the criteria. The development marks a significant step in efforts to resolve one of the region’s longest-running conflicts.
