Terrorism in Turkey
Abstract
Turkey has been fighting against the PKK (Kurdistan Worker Party) since 1985. The purpose of this study is to define what the PKK is, to explain origin of the Kurdish citizen, to define differences between the PKK and the Kurdish citizen and to try to find a solution to this problem within the frame of democratic rule. Turkey has been the unique target of international terrorism since 1965. To understand fully Turkey's importance one must take into consideration her geographical location, social and economic potential. Turkey has always attracted international attention. It will be probably the same in the future. Turkey is the only Islamic nation in NATO. It is however; totally secular, democratic and based on free market principles. On the other hand Turkey was a major obstacle for the ideological and military expansion of the Soviet Union towards the Middle East. This was the main reason why Turkey had been the main target of terrorism. The PKK has a close relationship to international terrorism and all kinds of illegal practices. Turkey has been accumulating a very costly social experience in the last three decades. International terrorism has been threatening not only Turkey, but also all democratic societies in the world. On account of this fact, the core of the solution depends on effective measures, which will have to be taken by all democratic societies, governments and institutions. The PKk is not a freedom fighter; it is a terrorist organization.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 17, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA378270
Entities
People
- Yuksel Oztekin
Organizations
- United States Army War College