ABSTRACT
The politicized elements of the Kurds in Turkey who have become more conscious ofwhat they believe to be a separate identity are clearly frustrated. They are not officially recognized as a nation, ethnic group or ethnic minority by the authorities in Ankara. Continued frustration could well turn to desperation and play into the hands of the PKK radicals. Talk of the recognition ofa 'Kurdish reality' by prominent Turhsh politicians does not go far enough. What do they mean by granting this recognition? Should it not be acknowledged that the Kurds as adistinct group or people are entitled to certain rights (minority rights) in addition to the rights they should already possess as Turkish citizens? Should not the recognition ofa separate identity and culture be adopted as a policy instead ofpossible further attempts to assimilate Kurds who do not wish to be assimilated? Such official recognition certainly need not result in the fragmentation of the state, although clearly certain officials in Ankara are fearful of such a prospect. However, there is a danger that this official recognition could leave an impression that the Kurds as a group enjoy more privileges than the rest of the population.
