Watch the segments from 09:00 to 18:38 / 1:33:11 to 1:42:12 / 2:26:12 to 2:29:10 for key insights from Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı.
Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı Analyzes Turkiye’s Regional Role and the Kurdish Issue in a Shifting Geopolitical Landscape
On December 29, 2024, Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı, co-founder of the Ankara Global Advisory Group, appeared on Habertürk TV’s Habertürk Gündem program hosted by Faruk Aksoy. The discussion delved into Turkiye’s approach to the Kurdish issue, the implications of non-state actors in regional stability, and the broader geopolitical dynamics shaping the Middle East. Prof. Dr. Bağcı offered a comprehensive analysis of historical and current challenges while proposing strategies fostering regional cooperation.
Key Insights from Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı:
Core Dynamics of the Kurdish Issue: Prof. Bağcı argued that while regional and global dynamics have evolved, the core actors in the Kurdish issue remain the same. Despite shifts in tactics or rhetoric, these actors are still primarily driven by historical grievances, territorial disputes, and strategic interests. Prof. Bağcı questioned whether recent changes in their approaches are a result of genuine understanding or simply reactions to changing geopolitical contexts. He emphasized that Turkish policy has always aimed at preserving a unitary state, and this remains central to its political strategies moving forward.
The Necessity of Inclusive Governance and Rejecting Exclusionary Policies: Prof. Bağcı pointed out that marginalizing either the Turkish or Kurdish communities would inevitably fail, as it would undermine the social and political cohesion needed for lasting peace. Instead, he advocated for a more inclusive approach that considers the needs of both Turks and Kurds while upholding Turkiye’s state integrity. He argued that any future political framework must be built on understanding to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past.
The Limits of Armed Non-State Actors and the Need for Political Integration: Prof. Bağcı also explored the challenges of integrating armed non-state organizations like the PKK and YPG into legitimate processes. Bağcı pointed out that the global trend increasingly disfavors fragmentation and the success of armed non-state entities. He emphasized that failure to transition toward nonviolent approaches risks prolonging conflict and instability. Additionally, addressing the psychological impact of the conflict, Prof. Bağcı stressed the need for the PKK to apologize to the Turkish people as a step toward.
The Decline of Kurdish Statehood Aspirations in the Current Geopolitical Landscape: In his assessment of Kurdish aspirations for an independent state, Prof. Bağcı concluded that the dream of an independent Kurdish state is no longer a viable option. This is largely due to the firm opposition of regional powers—particularly Turkiye, Iran, Iraq, and Syria—which have consistently resisted such ambitions. He noted that while there are still aspirations for a unified Kurdish state across these countries, the geopolitical realities make this increasingly unattainable. He attributed this to the intrinsic nature of movements that challenge state sovereignty, rather than those that emerge organically within state frameworks.
Learning from the Arab Spring and the Need for Cautious Engagement: Reflecting on Turkiye’s experience with the Arab Spring, Prof. Bağcı identified this period as a costly chapter marked by financial, social, and geopolitical setbacks. He called for a cautious approach moving forward, emphasizing the importance of learning from past mistakes to avoid repeating them. He also highlighted the necessity of strengthening Turkiye's internal and external resilience in order to navigate future challenges in the region. By focusing on building stability and cooperation, Turkiye could ensure it plays a more constructive role in the Middle East, contributing to peace and stability.
Moving Beyond Historical Divisions: Concluding his remarks, Prof. Bağcı expressed a vision for Turkiye as a unified, multicultural society that rejects divisive narratives. He compared Turkiye’s multicultural fabric to a harmonious blend, rather than a fragmented entity, advocating for a collective identity built on shared history and values. Prof. Bağcı emphasized that, to overcome its historical challenges, Turkiye must embrace a path of mutual respect, inclusivity, and constructive political language to ensure a more cohesive and prosperous future.
Conclusion: Turkiye’s Path to Regional Stability
Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı's insights into Turkiye's Kurdish issue and its broader regional role offer a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the country. He emphasized the need for inclusive governance, rejecting exclusionary policies that marginalize either the Turkish or Kurdish communities. His vision for a future marked by reconciliation and unity challenges divisive narratives and calls for a collective identity rooted in shared history and values. Ultimately, Bağcı’s analysis presents a compelling case for Turkiye to embrace a proactive, inclusive approach, addressing internal divisions while playing a stabilizing role in the region, and ensuring a prosperous future built on collaboration and peace.
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