Turkey's parliament has approved a limited amnesty for Kurdish PKK militants, a key step in a peace process aimed at ending four decades of conflict. The law, passed on Monday, sets out how some militants can return to civilian life. However, it excludes Abdullah Ocalan, the jailed founding leader of the PKK, whose release the group has made a central demand. That leaves his future unresolved.
The legislation provides a legal framework for reintegration of certain militants into society. Supporters view it as a significant move toward peace, but the exclusion of Ocalan could limit its effectiveness. The PKK has been fighting for decades, and the peace process is seen as a chance to end the violence.
The law's passage marks a major step, though questions remain about how it will be implemented and whether the group will accept its terms. The amnesty is limited, meaning not all militants will qualify. The government has not indicated any change in Ocalan's status, and his case continues to be a sticking point in the process.
Observers say the move is historic, but the coming weeks will show whether it can bring a lasting end to the conflict. The law is now in effect, and attention turns to the response from PKK leaders and the broader Kurdish community.