The Kurdish Conflict: International Humanitarian Law and Post-Conflict Mechanisms

This book is highly topical considering the recent resurgence of violence by the PKK, the incursions into Northern Iraq by the Turkish army and security forces and Turkey's EU accession negotiations. Turkey has become an increasingly important player in Middle Eastern geopolitics. More than two decades of serious conflict in Turkey are proving to be a barrier to improved relations between Turkey and the EU. This book is the first study to fully address the legal and political dimensions of the conflict, and their impact on mechanisms for conflict resolution in the region, offering a scholarly exploration of a debate that is often politically and emotionally highly charged.

Kerim Yildiz and Susan Breau look at the practical application of the law of armed conflicts to the ongoing situation in Turkey and Northern Iraq. The application of the law in this region also means addressing larger questions in international law, global politics and conflict resolution. Examples include belligerency in international law, whether the `War on Terror' has resulted in changes to the law of armed conflict and terrorism and conflict resolution.

The Kurdish Conflict explores the practical possibilities of conflict resolution in the region, examining the political dynamics of the region, and suggesting where lessons can be drawn from other peace processes, such as in Northern Ireland.

This book will be of great value to policy-makers, regional experts, and others interested in international humanitarian law and conflict resolution.

1. Historical Background 2. The International Law of Armed Conflict - Jus in Bello 3. Common Article 3. Customary International Humanitarian Law, International Human Rights Law and Minimum Humanitarian Standards Applicable to the Conflict in Southeast Turkey 4. Belligerents 5. The International Law of Armed Conflict - Jus ad Bellum 6. Terrorism, the Law of Armed Conflict and the PKK 7. Terrorism: Historical Engagement and the Global War on Terror 8. Self-Determination: Models for a Political Solution 9. International Humanitarian Law: Recognition of the Conflict as a Basis for Constructive Political Dialogue and Peace-Building