Turkish-Kurdish relations
Turkish-Kurdish relations refer to the complex interactions between the Turkish government and the Kurdish population, primarily in Turkey and surrounding regions. The Kurdish people are one of the largest ethnic groups in the world without a state, and they have sought greater autonomy and rights within Turkey. This has led to tensions, particularly with the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has engaged in armed conflict against the Turkish state since the 1980s.
Efforts for peace and reconciliation have been attempted, including a ceasefire in 2013, but these initiatives have often faltered. The Turkish government views the PKK as a terrorist organization, complicating dialogue. The situation remains sensitive, with ongoing debates about Kurdish rights, cultural recognition, and political representation in Turkey.