The Kurds are reasserting their identity politically and through violence. This study explores the roots, dimensions, character and evolution of the problem and offers a range of approaches to a resolution of the conflict. In the CARNEGIE COMMISSION ON PREVENTING DEADLY CONFLICT series.

The Kurds, one of the oldest ethnic groups in the Middle East, are reasserting their identity-politically and through violence. Turkey's essentially democratic structure and civil society-ideal tools for coping with and incorporating minority challenge-have so far been suspended on this issue, which the government is treating almost exclusively as a security problem to be dealt with by force. This study explores the roots, dimensions, character, and evolution of the problem, offers a range of approaches to a resolution of the conflict, and draws broader parallels between the Kurdish question and other separatist movements worldwide.