The “International Conference for the Freedom of Abdullah Öcalan and a Solution to the Kurdish Question” was held in the Italian capital, Rome, last weekend. More than 300 delegates from 16 different countries took part in the event. The conference focused on the ideas and philosophy of Abdullah Öcalan, while also discussing the progress, impact, and achievements of the “Freedom for Öcalan Campaign,” which was launched on 10 October 2023. Participants also explored the next steps to be taken within the scope of the campaign. A key highlight of the conference was Mr. Öcalan’s call issued on 27 February 2025, which left a strong impression on all in attendance.

Öcalan’s ideas are grounded in universal human values

One of the groups attending the conference was the Turin Young Women’s Commune, formed by internationalist youth based in Italy. Aurora, a 21-year-old member of the commune, responded to ANF’s questions. Emphasizing the significance of the current period, Aurora recalled that they discussed Mr. Öcalan’s historic call as one of the most important outcomes of the campaign. According to her, Mr. Öcalan has initiated a revolutionary transformation by cultivating a free personality. She stated that his ideas and philosophy are based on democracy, the rights of minorities, nature, and universal human values.

Öcalan’s imprisonment is the imprisonment of our hope

Aurora emphasized that Abdullah Öcalan’s ideas are a source of hope for them. She said, “The global system is not built on love, but on hatred. For us young people, who are especially shaped by this system, Mr. Öcalan’s ideas offer an alternative.” Recalling the international conspiracy (15 February 1999, the day in which Öcalan was abducted in Kenya) against Öcalan, Aurora stated, “The system may have imprisoned Mr. Öcalan, but for us, he is not merely a political prisoner. His imprisonment represents the incarceration of society, the people, and above all, our hope.”

The freedom of Öcalan is the solution to global war

Aurora highlighted the importance of organization, stating that young people possess great energy and intelligence to organize and build an alternative system. She also underlined the significance of internationalism. She stated, “We must build bonds of friendship among the peoples of the world. We can build our collective identity together. If we recognize that all of us around the world are comrades, fighting against the same enemy, then nothing will stand in the way of our organizing.” Aurora concluded by stressing the importance of Öcalan’s freedom: “The freedom of Mr. Öcalan is incredibly important right now. Because it is the key to resolving global conflicts and restoring love for humanity.”