The Fourth International Conference on the EU, Turkey and the Kurds has reached a successful conclusion today. KHRP Executive Director and EUTCC Board Member Kerim Yildiz today praised the quality and depth of discussion stating that "the range of views offered and the willingness of people to listen demonstrates the clear desire for the development of democratic platforms within Turkey promoting genuine dialogue on the Kurdish issue and its impact on EU accession ". 

The day's sessions addressed questions of human rights and fundamental freedoms in Turkey, developments in the accession process, and the possible means of resolving the ongoing conflict in south-east Turkey. Speakers included Professor Baskin Oran of Ankara University and Mark Muller QC, KHRP and BHRC Board Chair. 

Over the duration of the conference, speakers offered a range of views as to the steps needed to move the Turkey-EU accession process forward and to bring an end to conflict in the region. There were several points of contention amongst both audience members and speakers. While it was generally agreed that the accession process is a vital element of the Turkish democratisation process, opinions differed as to who should be party to future moves towards a resolution of the Kurdish issue.  

The conference closed today with the EUTCC board leading discussion of resolutions put forward by conference participants and attendees, which will be published and disseminated tomorrow by the EUTCC.