The 'call for peace and democracy' made by Abdullah Öcalan on February 27 received widespread support on a global scale. All actors with interests in the region have publicly welcomed the call. The interest it sparked was not limited to states; democratic, leftist, and socialist circles across the Middle East and the world also responded with great appreciation.

Laura Quagliuolo, a member of the Italy-based Rete Jin network, was among those who voiced their support. Quagliuolo told ANF that she considers herself part of the Kurdish women's movement.

Quagliuolo highlighted that Mr. Öcalan is the only leader who speaks the truth about peace and added: “Everyone talks about peace, but at the same time they encourage militarization. They are seeking war.”

We must work for a democratic society

Quagliuolo stressed the need to build a democratic society and said: “We have to work everywhere. We live in Europe, right at the heart of the beast. Europe is a pro-war and colonialist region. That is why it is so important to fight for change from within.”

She pointed to Öcalan’s philosophy of women’s liberation and explained: “In Mr. Öcalan’s thinking, women’s liberation is of utmost priority. The women’s revolution in North and East Syria must be seen as a leading example and defended in every possible way. Of course, in all struggles, the liberation of women must take precedence.”

Quagliuolo also emphasized the crucial importance of Mr. Öcalan’s freedom and concluded: “This is because he is the leader of the Kurdish people. He must be able to address his people, work with them, and together decide what must be done.”