The Amed (Diyarbakır) branch of the Human Rights Association (IHD) organized a conference over the weekend on achieving lasting peace regarding the Kurdish issue. The conference, titled 'The Road to Peace: Memory and Justice', brought together families of those who lost their lives in the conflict, along with numerous human rights defenders and peace activists.

Families attending the conference shared their demands for peace with ANF.

This war must end now

Nezahat Teke, expressing that they had gathered in the name of peace and were fighting for it, said: "We would have liked to see the mothers of fallen soldiers and police officers here today as well. They, too, lost their children in this war. We know the pain a mother feels when she loses a child. We hope similar programs like this one are held everywhere. We want everyone to talk about peace. This war must end now. We have suffered enough. We want a time when tears cease and peace prevails. These lands need peace. Everyone must strive for it. We want to embrace our children, not bury them. If there’s a ceasefire, both sides must respect it. Peace must be mutual. All prisoners should be released. The state must end this war as soon as possible."

The state must not miss this opportunity

Veli Encü, affirming their support for the peace and resolution process initiated by Leader Öcalan, said: "We find this process very important and support it. As families from Roboski, we have always stood for peace. Pain should not divide us. All pain and all demands are shared. We have supported every step taken in the name of peace. We believe that this process should be embraced not only by Kurds but by everyone. We’ve all been hurt, we’ve all lost those most precious to us. We must now prevent further loss. This process must be embraced sincerely. Mr. Öcalan has taken on a historic responsibility here and fulfilled his duty. The state must not miss this opportunity, it must act on it."

Peace is a need for all of us 

Afife Kartal, who lost one child in the war and has another imprisoned, emphasized that the Turkish state must take concrete steps. She said: "Peace is something we all need. We want an honorable peace. Let there be peace and brotherhood in these lands. I address Mr. Erdoğan and Mr. Bahçeli: Embrace the peace process initiated by Mr. Öcalan. I lost a daughter and have a son in prison. Despite everything, we insist on peace. We no longer want mothers to suffer."