Democratic Republic Conference starts in Istanbul

The 'Democratic Republic Conference' organized by the Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) began in Istanbul with the participation of more than three hundred intellectuals, writers, academics, politicians, leaders of Alevi institutions, deputies, and the leaders and representatives of the parties that make up the Alliance for Labor and Freedom.

HDP co-chairs Pervin Buldan and Mithat Sancar delivered the opening speeches of the conference, promising to unite the forces of all marginalized and oppressed sections of the people to build democracy in the country.

HISTORICAL DUTY

"The need for a strong democracy is imminent in Turkey's second century," said Pervin Buldan, adding that it is a historical duty to bring the republic together in its second century with a strong social peace, genuine justice and universal law, basic human rights, gender equality, the right to work and an ecological life.

She continued:

"The insolvency of the Kurdish question, which is the source of all problems in this country, is one of the biggest obstacles to democracy in Turkey. The Kurdish question is the biggest gap between the republic and democracy. (...) If we can see this rift, there is a chance for a democratic and peaceful solution to the Kurdish question and we will reach a social consensus. For this reason, the democratic solution of the issue and a lasting peace will play a historic role in the democratization of Turkey."

NEED FOR A SOCIAL CONTRACT

To achieve the democratization of the country, Turkey needs a social contract, said co-chair Mithat Sancar.

"The monist, denialist approach to the Kurdish problem is the most important result of the Republic's patronizing mission," he said.

He added:

"One of the most important obstacles to the republic's failure so far to meet democratic standards is that the Kurdish problem has not been solved on a liberal, democratic and egalitarian basis. The same is true for the faith communities. Many religious communities, especially Alevis, do not find a way to live their own identity freely, and various initiatives are taken from time to time. However, the state makes effort not to recognize them. The road to democracy, the integration and incorporation of the Republic into democracy and its indissoluble connection depends on realistically confronting our fundamental problems. Confrontation will make it possible to show us new ways as well."

Democratic Republic Conference will continue on Sunday.