As Germany approaches its elections on February 23, the Central Human Rights Council of the Kurds in Germany (ZMRK) has laid out its crucial demands aimed at the incoming federal government. Their expectations resonate with today’s pressing challenges, underscoring the need for a just, rights-based policy in the nation.
1. Equality: The institutional recognition of the Kurdish identity is vital, advocating for the Kurdish language’s presence in official documents and the promotion of mother-tongue education across Germany.
2. Anti-discrimination: The council calls for proactive measures against the Grey Wolves, a significant extremist group threatening Kurds, Armenians, and other minorities, thus aiming for safer communities.
3. Peace-oriented Foreign Policy: The necessity for a balanced relationship with Turkey should not overshadow Kurdish human rights, urging Germany to mediate for a democratic solution to Kurdish issues and to oppose Turkey’s illegitimate actions in Kurdish regions.
4. Migration and Asylum: Immediate cessation of deportations of Kurdish refugees to Turkey, Iraq, Syria, and Iran is essential to safeguard them from political persecution, ensuring robust protection for at-risk activists.
5. Persecution of Opponents in Turkey: Germany must firmly address the oppression faced by those in Turkey exercising their rights to free speech and assembly, reinforcing protections for activists and political dissidents.
6. Cooperation with Kurdish Organizations: It is fundamental that Kurdish organizations in Germany are consulted during political decisions, ensuring their concerns are duly represented in the government’s actions.
7. Protection of Abdullah Öcalan’s Rights: The German government should advocate for the humane treatment of Abdullah Öcalan, recognizing his pivotal role in peace processes and pushing for an end to his isolation in line with international laws.
8. Promotion of Democratic Participation: The ban on the PKK not only witnesses systematic discrimination against Kurds but obstructs the possibility of peaceful conflict resolution, hence, reinstatement of legal rights for Kurds must be pursued.
9. Stop Arms Deliveries to Turkey: Germany’s role as a major arms supplier to Turkey must be reassessed, with a call to halt exports that facilitate violence against the Kurdish people and violate international law.
10. Protection Against Espionage: With over 8,000 Turkish secret agents active in Germany, the government must proactively thwart espionage activities to safeguard Kurdish activists and political opponents from harm.
11. Limiting Islamist Threats: Kurdish communities face heightened risks from Islamist violence, prompting Germany to ensure comprehensive protection and reassess its cooperation with Turkey, which has historically supported extremist factions.
12. Repatriation of German IS Fighters: The return of German ISIS fighters and their families is imperative for justice and security, allowing for prosecution under German law and alleviating tensions in conflict zones.
13. Recognition of Anti-Kurdish Racism: An urgent need exists for the acknowledgment and documentation of anti-Kurdish racism, accompanied by preventative actions against its structural and everyday manifestations.
14. Commitment to Human Rights: The next German government should uphold unwavering commitment to human rights, combating discrimination and safeguarding the rights of minorities and refugees.
Die Linke is noted as the only party voicing support for these demands, highlighting the election’s significance for millions. Citizens are urged to exercise their voting rights to influence the future of Germany profoundly.
The Central Human Rights Council of the Kurds in Germany (ZMRK) has outlined its expectations for the upcoming German elections, focusing on 14 key demands. These include the recognition of Kurdish identity, measures against extremism, a call for peace-oriented foreign policies, and strong protections against deportation and discrimination. They appeal for governmental commitment to human rights, urging citizens to vote to influence the future of Germany.
In summary, the Kurdish Human Rights Council of Germany outlines critical demands for the future government that reflect the urgent need for equality, anti-discrimination, and robust human rights policies. Emphasising recognition for Kurdish identity, the cessation of deportations, and a proactive stance against foreign aggression, these demands aim to construct a fair and just society for all. Voter participation is crucial in steering the country toward these ideals during the upcoming elections.
Original Source: anfenglish.com
