The Democratic Unity Initiative held its 2nd Ordinary General Assembly under the slogan “We will succeed with the spirit of unity.” The message sent by Abdullah Öcalan to the General Assembly reads as follows:

 

“To the Congress of the Democratic Unity Initiative…

 

Democratic national unity is an understanding of unity based on the free will of peoples and communities, voluntary and pluralistic in nature. This unity does not reflect monist and centralized nation-state models, but rather a form of social organization that draws its strength from the local level and is based on democratic participation.

 

It derives its strength not from seizing power, but from becoming socialized.

 

The division of Kurdistan into four parts is a historical reality. Taking into account the specific conditions of each part, different methods and forms of unity can be developed. Unity between the parts should be established not with the aim of statist power, but on the basis of the democratic nation concept.

 

The solution to the Kurdish question and democratic unity gain meaning only when considered together with the search for freedom and peace of all peoples in Turkey, Iran, Iraq, and Syria.

 

Lasting unity is possible not through force, but through equality, mutual recognition, and the will to live together. For this reason, I find it necessary to particularly emphasize the democratic character of unity. In carrying out this work, democratic politics and democratic social organization are undoubtedly the fundamental path of this journey.

 

I believe this congress will be an important step in strengthening the principles and objectives of democratic unity.

 

I greet you all with my endless love.

 

Abdullah Öcalan

 

Imrali Island"