Why Turkey Cannot Easily Eradicate the PKK: A Comprehensive Analysis

The PKK, or Kurdistan Workers' Party, has long been a contentious issue in Turkey. Despite various military and political strategies employed by the Turkish government, the group continues to maintain a presence. This article will explore the multifaceted reasons behind this ongoing challenge, emphasizing the geopolitical, economic, and international factors involved.

Geopolitical Challenges

The primary geopolitical challenge lies in the rugged terrain of the region, where the height of mountains exceeds 3,000 meters. This natural geography makes it exceedingly difficult for any group, including the PKK, to maintain a centralized organization. Turkey has attempted to overcome this challenge by requesting Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from both the United States and Israel, but these efforts have not proven effective. While Turkey has developed its own UAV capabilities since 2009, the effectiveness of these efforts has been limited.

Internal political dynamics further complicate the situation. Notably, the Gulenist movement within the Turkish military has influenced operations. Instead of targeting specific PKK positions, some pilots and soldiers have directed attacks towards the mountains themselves, not the intended targets. This has undermined the operational effectiveness of government efforts to combat the PKK. Additionally, some Turkish generals have opposed the development of UAV technology, hindering progress in this critical area.

Cultural and Economic Constraints

The feudal structure of the Middle East region severely limits the autonomy of Kurdish individuals. Without the ability to develop businesses or even engage in smaller-scale professions like shepherding, Kurds are often forced into dependent positions. This dependency extends to the PKK, which extorts money and goods, often through compulsory payments or outright threats. For example, Kurdish farmers must give some of their animals to the PKK as part of a tax-like tribute. If farmers resist, their entire livestock could be killed.

Political and Social Pressures

The political landscape is also a significant factor. The PKK supports and/or threatens the Kurdish political party, HDP (People's Democratic Party). Due to the failure of HDP to condemn PKK activities, the party faces increasing pressure from both Turkish and Kurdish citizens. Many HDP members have been found guilty of assisting PKK, leading to public backlash. PKK-affiliated mothers of teenage fighters have even staged protests in front of HDP buildings, demanding their children be returned.

Economic Challenges

The PKK's economy is established through illegal activities such as human trafficking, cigarette smuggling, goods trading, and drug trafficking. These illicit activities have been effectively targeted by Turkish law enforcement using UAV intelligence, leading to significant economic pressure on the PKK. With their economy under siege, the PKK has few viable means to generate revenue and sustain their operations.

International Considerations

The international community also plays a crucial role. While the European Union (EU) condemns the PKK as a terrorist organization, they often work with the group under different guises, using them to counter Turkish policies. This conflicting stance makes it challenging for Turkey to isolate the PKK fully on the international stage. However, there is hope that as fewer members of the Turkish public support the PKK, the group will become increasingly dependent on EU countries for support. As this support diminishes, the PKK may reconsider its positions and actions.

In conclusion, the fight against the PKK is a complex and multifaceted issue that involves a mix of geopolitical challenges, cultural constraints, political pressures, and economic struggles. The international community's involvement further complicates the situation. It is essential to address these issues comprehensively to achieve long-term stability in the region.