About
Leyla Zana is a Kurdish politician in Turkey, known for her activism and advocacy for Kurdish rights. She faced imprisonment for ten years due to her political activities, which were deemed by Turkish courts as a threat to the country's unity. Zana was awarded the 1995 Sakharov Prize by the European Parliament, though she could not receive it until her release in 2004. She was also awarded the Rafto Prize in 1994 in recognition of her peaceful struggle for the human rights of the Kurdish people.
Career Timeline
Elected to Parliament
Becomes the first Kurdish woman in Turkish parliament.
Imprisoned for Separatism
Arrested and imprisoned for political activities.
Sakharov Prize Awarded
Awarded the Sakharov Prize, increasing international recognition despite imprisonment.
Released from Prison
Released after a decade, re-entering political life.
Re-elected to Parliament
Returns to parliament, continuing Kurdish rights advocacy.
Stripped of Parliament Seat
Once again loses her parliamentary seat amid political tensions.
Continues Kurdish Advocacy
Remains a prominent activist for Kurdish rights.
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Last updated: February 24, 2026