Description
Founded in 1974 as a Marxist-Leninist insurgent group primarily composed of
Turkish Kurds. The group’s goal has been to establish an independent, democratic
Kurdish state in the Middle East. In the early 1990s, the PKK moved beyond
rural-based insurgent activities to include urban terrorism. Turkish authorities
captured Chairman Abdullah Ocalan in Kenya in early 1999; the Turkish State
Security Court subsequently sentenced him to death. In August 1999, Ocalan
announced a “peace initiative,” ordering members to refrain from violence and
requesting dialogue with Ankara on Kurdish issues. At a PKK Congress in January
2000, members supported Ocalan’s initiative and claimed the group now would use
only political means to achieve its new goal, improved rights for Kurds in
Turkey. In April 2002 at its 8th Party Congress, the PKK changed its
name to the Kurdistan Freedom and Democracy Congress (KADEK) and proclaimed a
commitment to nonviolent activities in support of Kurdish rights. A PKK/KADEK
spokesman stated that its armed wing, The People’s Defense Force, would not
disband or surrender its weapons for reasons of self-defense, however. This
statement by the PKK/KADEK avowing it would not lay down its arms underscores
that the organization maintains its capability to carry out terrorist
operations. PKK/KADEK established a new ruling council in April, its membership
virtually identical to the PKK’s Presidential Council.
Activities
Primary targets have been Turkish Government security forces in Turkey, local
Turkish officials, and villagers who oppose the organization in Turkey.
Conducted attacks on Turkish diplomatic and commercial facilities in dozens of
West European cities in 1993 and again in spring 1995. In an attempt to damage
Turkey’s tourist industry, the PKK bombed tourist sites and hotels and kidnapped
foreign tourists in the early-to-mid 1990s. The PKK/KADEK did not conduct a
terrorist attack in 2002; however, the group periodically issues veiled threats
that it will resume violence if the conditions of its imprisoned leader are not
improved, and it continues its military training and planning.
Strength
Approximately 4,000 to 5,000, most of whom currently are located in northern
Iraq. Has thousands of sympathizers in Turkey and Europe.
Location/Area of Operation
Operates in Turkey, Europe, and the Middle East.
External Aid
Has received safehaven and modest aid from Syria, Iraq, and Iran. Damascus
generally upheld its September 2000 antiterror agreement with Ankara, pledging
not to support the PKK. Conducts extensive fundraising in Europe.