Another Municipality in Turkey Seized by Trustee Appointment

The Turkish government, under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has once again appointed a trustee to a democratically elected municipality, continuing a controversial trend that many see as undermining local democracy. This time, the trustee was assigned to the Bahçesaray’s Municipality in the province of Van, raising the number of such appointments since the March 31 […]

Mass Detentions in Turkey: 231 Arrested in Night Raids Across Multiple Cities

The government of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and the ruling AKP has escalated its crackdown on dissent, targeting individuals and groups that oppose its rule. In a coordinated operation conducted overnight, Turkish authorities detained 231 people across several cities. A Government Tightening Its Grip Over recent years, Erdoğan’s administration has shown little tolerance for democratic […]

Erdoğan Government Appoints Trustees to Two More Municipalities, Sparking Protests

The Turkish government, led by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has appointed trustees to two more municipalities governed by opposition parties, intensifying criticism over its handling of local governance and democratic principles. Trustees were installed in the Tunceli and Ovacık municipalities on Tuesday, following a string of similar appointments in other opposition-controlled cities. Both municipalities had […]

Journalist Furkan Karabay Arrested; Press Organisations React

Furkan Karabay, a reporter for 10Haber, has been arrested over his reports and social media posts regarding the investigation into Esenyurt Mayor Ahmet Özer, sparking reactions from journalist organizations. Karabay was detained following his coverage of the investigation into Ahmet Özer, who was removed from his position and arrested on charges of “membership in a […]

Weapons Bound for Israel Routed Through Turkish Ports, Raising Questions and Concerns

A German-flagged cargo ship named Kathrin, reportedly carrying weapons bound for Israel, has stirred controversy as it navigates through Turkish ports. After a recent stop at Haydarpasa Port in Istanbul, the vessel is now reported to have altered its course toward Antalya Port, a major Turkish hub along the Mediterranean coast. The route and cargo […]

Turkish government replaces three Kurdish mayors with state trustees

The government dismissed the pro-Kurdish mayors of the Mardin Metropolitan Municipality, Batman Municipality, and Halfeti District Municipality in Urfa, effectively removing mayors from the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party. Following the news of the trustee appointment for Mardin, police cordoned off the municipality building early in the day. In Batman, Sanliurfa and Mardin […]

AKP Targeting Opposition-Led Municipalities Through Trustee Appointments

The AKP government wants to take over municipalities it couldn’t win through elections by appointing trustees. Ahmet Özer, the CHP mayor of Esenyurt, was arrested after being detained on fabricated charges. After giving his statement to the prosecution, Özer was referred to the Criminal Judgeship of Peace with an allegation of “membership in a criminal […]

Turkey Revisits the Kurdish Question as Middle East Nears All-Out War

 The leader of Turkey’s far-right Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), Devlet Bahceli, a coalition partner of President Erdogan, recently made controversial remarks regarding Abdullah Ocalan, the jailed PKK leader held in isolation on Imrali Island. “If the isolation of the terrorist leader is lifted, let him come and speak at the DEM Party group meeting in […]

Hidden Trade: How Turkey’s Exports to Israel Persist Behind a Palestinian Cover

Despite denials from the Erdoğan administration, data shows that trade with Israel is continuing under the guise of Palestine, with barbed wire used against Palestinians being supplied from Turkey. Although the government insists that trade with Israel has ceased, official records tell a different story. Claims about halting trade with Israel, coupled with calls for […]

Healthcare Privatisation Scandal: Organised Crime Group Accused of Infant Deaths in Istanbul

A major healthcare scandal has emerged in Istanbul, where 47 suspects, including 22 currently in custody, are accused of exploiting newborn patients for financial gain by collaborating with Turkey’s 112 Emergency Service to direct infants to private hospitals. The suspects allegedly extended hospital stays and exaggerated medical conditions to inflate claims to the Social Security […]

Erdoğan wants to change the constitution to be re-elected

Despite having changed the constitution multiple times during his 22 years in power, Erdoğan now says, “a more democratic constitution is needed” and wants to change it again. To make changes, he needs the support of the opposition in parliament, even though he has been attacking all democratic rights for 22 years. Strikes are being […]

European Lawmakers Demand Immediate Release of Imprisoned Turkish MP Can Atalay

In a growing outcry against what many are calling a grave injustice, Members of the European Parliament have urged Turkish authorities to release Can Atalay, a prominent human rights lawyer and elected representative of Hatay, who remains in prison despite being elected to the Turkish Parliament over a year ago. Atalay, known for his work […]

Erdoğan’s False Claims Exposed Amid Economic Crisis

It has been revealed that Erdoğan has lied once again. Last week, in his speech during the opening of Parliament, Erdoğan claimed that after attacking Palestine and Lebanon, Israel would attack Turkey next. Opposition parties, saying “If there is such a state secret, let us know as well so we can unite,” requested a closed […]

FERNAS MINING WORKERS MARCHED TO PARLIAMENT AGAINST SLAVE-LIKE CONDITIONS

Industrial contraction is accelerating in Turkey, unemployment is rising, and monthly inflation remains high. The government’s economic policies continue to hit workers hard. While protests continue across various sectors in Turkey, Fernas Mining workers marched from Soma to Ankara in protest of unsafe working conditions and low wages. Despite police attempts to block them, the […]

Erdoğan Says Israel’s Next Target is Turkey

Turkish President Erdoğan claimed that Israel would attack Turkey following its assaults on Palestine and Lebanon. While opposition parties believe there is no factual basis for this statement, they called for an extraordinary closed session of parliament. Erdoğan, who has yet to comment further on this issue, aims to regain lost public support by suggesting […]

A Child’s Murder Unveils a Corrupt Network with Powerful Ties

Narin Güran, 8 years old girl was brutally murdered at Tavşantepe, a southeastern village of Turkey,  a crime that shocked the nation. The case has dominated public attention due to the horrific nature of the murder and the alarming details surrounding it. Salim Güran, the main suspect and the uncle of the victim, is a […]

Is Erdoğan a Friend of Israel Disguised as an Enemy?

Although Turkish President Erdoğan repeatedly condemns Israel and refers to it as a “terrorist state,” the reality seems different in practice. Due to the massacres in Gaza, the public has demanded for months that all trade relations with Israel be cut off. Initially, Erdoğan did not halt this trade. Later, he announced that the trade […]

Bosses Backed by the Government are Preventing Workers from Organising

Since 2002, under the policies of the ruling AKP, workers and labourers in Turkey have become poorer and have lost many of their rights. Over the past 20 years, unionisation rates among workers have plummeted. Around 200,000 workers were affected by twenty strikes that were banned. In Türkiye, every year, more than 1,500 workers die […]

The Mayor of New York Engaged in Corruption with Turkish Officials

It has been revealed that New York Mayor Eric Adams engaged in corruption with Turkish officials and businesspeople. He reportedly used Turkish Airlines for nearly all of his trips around the world and purchased tickets with layovers in Istanbul. The cost of these tickets was covered by Turkish Airlines. Many corrupt activities were carried out […]

Brawl Erupts in Turkish Parliament During Debate on Jailed MP

Two opposition members of Turkey’s parliament were injured during a session that devolved into a fistfight over a jailed MP who had recently been stripped of his status. The scuffle began when Alpay Özalan, a lawmaker from the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) and a former professional footballer, physically attacked Ahmet Şık, a deputy […]

Turkey Faces Backlash Over Stray Animal Slaughter Law

Following the enactment of a law permitting the ‘slaughter’ of stray animals, disturbing reports of mass killings have emerged from various cities across Turkey. In the Altındağdistrict of Ankara, numerous dogs were discovered buried, revealing signs of torture and severe bodily harm. An investigation into this tragic incident is currently underway. The controversial legislation, proposed by […]

Repeal the Law Now!

SPOT, Solidarity with the People of Turkey, urgently demands the immediate repeal of the newly approved law targeting millions of stray dogs across Turkey. This law, widely condemned as the “massacre law,” has sparked outrage and resistance among Turkish citizens, who view it as a cruel and inhumane approach to animal welfare. The government’s decision, […]

New Education Curriculum in Turkey Sparks Controversy: Critics Cite Religious and Authoritarian Leanings

Minister Yusuf Tekin unveils ‘Turkey Century Education Model’ amidst scrutiny over its ideological underpinnings In a move that has ignited widespread debate, Minister of National Education Yusuf Tekin has introduced a new educational curriculum titled the ‘Turkey Century Education Model’. This announcement comes amid criticism from various quarters regarding its content and approach, with detractors […]

A trustee was appointed again to the Hakkari Municipality

A trustee was appointed once more to the Hakkari Municipality, located in the easternmost part of Turkey where Kurds predominantly live. Hakkari Co-Mayor Mehmet Sıddık Akış was detained in Van in the morning hours. While the police raided the municipality, the Ministry of Interior announced that a trustee had been appointed in place of Akış. […]

Turkish Court Imposes Substantial Sentences on Pro-Kurdish Leaders

Selahattin Demirtas, the former Co-Chairman of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), along with other Kurdish politicians, has been convicted and sentenced to prison on charges related to the case involving the 2014 Kobani protests. A total of 108 HDP members were prosecuted in relation to the nationwide incidents that occurred on October 6-8, 2014. The trial […]

In the AKP Government in Turkey, 33 Thousand Workers Lost Their Lives in Work Accidents

In Turkey, under the AKP and Erdogan government, approximately 33 thousand workers lost their lives in work-related accidents. During the 22-year reign of the AKP, Turkey witnessed some of its worst work-related accidents in history. Despite significant negligence on the part of the government and state institutions, not a single resignation has been tendered to […]

Turkey: Everyone is now a “spy”

Turkey’s partisan President (from the Islamist/Nationalist Justice and Development Party – AKP), Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, signalled a “softening process” aimed at compensating for his party’s defeat in local elections a few days ago by stating, “I want to initiate a softening process in Turkish politics.” Erdoğan’s move resonated with the main opposition party, the Republican […]

Journalists Continue to Be Arrested in Turkey

In the past two weeks, approximately 20 journalists have been detained in Turkey. As the latest example of this trend, two journalists were detained in Diyarbakır last night following raids on their homes. Concerns over press freedom in the country are escalating. Journalists’ right to report critically is continuing to be restricted. Nurcan Yalçın and […]

288 people who participated in May Day demo detained, 38 arrested!

On May 1st, police attacked workers who wanted to demonstrate in Taksim Square in Istanbul and detained a total of 288 people. 38 people were arrested and placed in prison. Although demonstrating in Taksim Square is a constitutional right, the Erdoğan government arbitrarily banned it. On May 1st, 247 people were detained, and yesterday and […]

Turkey’s trade with Israel breaks records

According to data from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK), exports to Israel have reached a record level since the conflicts began in October 2023. In March, exports to Israel amounted to $436,928,000. Export figures between October 2023 and February 2024 were as follows: $347,868,000; $319,207,000; $429,054,000; $349,481,000; $422,059,000; $436,928,000. So, while Erdogan declares support for […]

May Day demonstration banned from Taksim Square!

Taksim Square, known for its historical significance as the site of the Gezi resistance in 2013 and the tragic May Day demonstration in 1977 where 37 workers lost their lives, has been banned for this year’s May Day demonstration. The decision has faced criticism from labour unions, who argue that workers should have the right […]

Nine Journalists Detained in Istanbul and Ankara Police Operations

This morning, police operations were carried out against journalists in Istanbul and Ankara. In a house raid conducted in Ankara, Mehmet Aslan, a reporter for Mezopotamya Agency (MA), was detained. In house raids conducted in Istanbul, MA reporter Esra Solin Dal, Enes Sezgin from Yeni Yaşam newspaper, as well as journalists Saliha Aras, Yeşim Alıcı, […]

Press Freedom Under Siege: More Journalists Face Prosecution in Turkey”

Another journalist in Turkey is confronting criminal prosecution for the publishing of news and opinion. Journalist Oktay Candemir faces investigation following complaint filed by Abdulahat Arvas, the AKP Van Metropolitan Municipality Candidate, resulted in an investigation being launched against journalist Oktay Candemir on charges of “insulting a public official” during the local elections. However, it […]

Migrant shops are being closed

Burcu Köksal, from the main opposition social democratic party CHP, who became the mayor of Afyon City in the local elections held on March 31, closed the unlicensed shops of migrants. Köksal also said she would send the migrants back to their home countries. During the election campaign, Burcu Köksal, who said that if she […]

Massacre and Trade are separate

The Turkish government and AKP’s response to public calls for cutting trade with Israel has stirred significant interest. Nihat Zeybekci, AKP Vice Chairman and Head of Economic Affairs delivered a notable response by drawing a line between the atrocities and commercial ties, stating, “Massacre is one thing, trade is another.” Zeybekci’s remarks highlighted the complexity […]

Political Prisoners Remain Detained

The detention of political prisoners, including HDP Co-Chair Selahattin Demirtaş, continues as the court rejected the request for their release. The decision hearing has been postponed to May 16 due to procedural deficiencies and time constraints. Despite being held for nearly 8 years, the reasons for their detention remain unclear. This situation raises concerns about […]

Why should trade unionists in the UK support SPOT?

Solidarity with the People of Turkey was established to support those struggling for democracy and fundamental freedoms in Turkey, whilst also contributing to the working people’s struggle in the UK. People often ask why international work has anything to do with trade unions in the UK. As trade unionists, we understand the need for solidarity. […]

Turkey’s Complicity: Unveiling the Hypocrisy in Erdogan’s Stance on Gaza

The recent police beating and arrests of over 40 people in Istanbul for protesting the genocide in Gaza underlines the rank hypocrisy of the government of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Those demonstrating had embarrassed the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) by highlighting Turkey’s continued economic ties to Israel. Another march in the city of […]

The individuals who expressed their opinion of ‘Ceasing trade with Israel’ were apprehended.

In Taksim, Istanbul, 43 individuals expressing their desire to sever trade relations with Israel were apprehended. President Erdogan and the AKP government’s strong rhetoric against Israel has consistently sparked reactions. However, the recent developments have caused a significant backlash in Turkey, which has also been reflected in the election results. Despite widespread public support for […]

Opposition figure who ousted Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s nominee restored to Van’s mayoral position

Turkish authorities have yielded to significant protests in the southeastern city of Van, reversing their decision to disqualify an opposition politician who secured victory over the candidate from President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s ruling party in Sunday’s election. Van, a vibrant city situated near Turkey’s border with Iran, erupted into jubilant celebrations on Wednesday and Thursday […]

Erdoğan suffered defeat in the local elections yet persists in lawlessness!

Turkey has been governed unlawfully for years. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who obtained a majority in the government, tries to do as he pleases in the country. He disregards judicial decisions and does not grant any freedom to his people. Even in elections, he always stayed in power through various fraudulent means. However, he suffered […]

Workers trapped in goldmine after landslide destruction

Search and rescue operations are currently underway for the nine workers who are trapped in the collapsed heap leach at the Çöpler Gold Mine, which is owned by Anagold Mining in the İliç district of Erzincan. This incident has once again brought attention to the country’s poor safety record, as previous calls to shut down […]

Imprisoned MP Can Atalay loses MP status

Turkey’s parliament revoked the status of the jailed opposition MP today after the judicial crisis between two of the country’s top courts. Can Atalay was elected to parliament as an MP for Hatay from TIP in the May 2023 elections. He was sentenced to 18 years in prison in the Gezi trial. Atalay’s applications for […]

AKP Government’s Discriminatory Policies Fuel Islamic Extremism and Violence

The discriminatory policies of Erdogan’s AKP government have created a hostile environment that led to the unfortunate armed attack during the Sunday mass at the Saint Maria Italian Catholic Church in Sarıyer district of İstanbul on January 28, where one person died. The Islamic State jihadists claimed responsibility for the attack. The organisation stated that […]

Solidarity with Ozak Textile Workers

We once again call for solidarity with the Özak Textile workers, whose hearts beat with courage in different countries around the world! Özak Textile workers have been exercising their right to choose a union in the face of oppression, mobbing, and slave-like conditions at the workplace since the 27th of November. The voices of these […]

UPDATED: Is Erdogan’s one-man rule the end of democracy in Turkey?

As in previous years, the SPOT conference will discuss a range of issues generated by the experiences and struggles of workers and campaigners in Turkey. It will address the most recent attack on trade unions, women’s rights, LGBT+ people and climate activists. It will seek to put this in a wider context of the drive […]

From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!

SPOT stands in solidarity with the people of Palestine and calls for an immediate ceasefire and an end to the siege of Gaza. We condemn the killing of Israeli civilians by Hamas and the response of the Israeli government to collectively punish the Palestinian people. Following the attacks on the 7th of October, Benjamin Netanyahu […]

SPOT urges solidarity with Rojava amid ongoing attacks

The Turkish government’s bombardment of the autonomous Kurdish administration in northeast Syria (Rojava), which began two days ago, amounts to the collective punishment of the Kurdish people in the region. Erdogan’s Islamist regime is targeting infrastructure facilities and civilian settlement areas in Rojava. “The infrastructure in the north and east of Syria is a legitimate […]

Merdan Yanardag arrested in latest attack on opposition media

The arrest of TELE 1 editor-in-chief Merdan Yanardag is the latest intimidation operation by the Turkish government against the opposition press. In a televised speech over the weekend, Yanardag said: “[PKK leader Abdullah] Öcalan is the longest-serving political prisoner in Türkiye. If normal execution laws were applicable, he should actually be released… The isolation imposed […]

Turkey: Before and after the elections

This panel is organised by SPOT and Day-Mer and is a part of the 34th Day-Mer Culture and Arts Festival. Speakers: Labour MP Kate Osamor Bir-TEK Sen general secretary Mehmet Turkmen EMEP MP Iskender Bayhan Unison international officer Mark Beacon Day-Mer MCM Ceren Sagir To register your interest, visit: eventbrite

International observers visit the trial of trade unionists in Ankara

On Monday 5th June a delegation of ten international observers, four from UK trade unions, attended the hearing of eight trade unionists in Ankara, Turkey. This is the sixth trial and details of the allegations and people charges are below. One of the defendants Gonul Erden joined remotely as she is still being held under […]

Erdogan turned illegitimate elections in his favour!

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who has been managing Turkey like his own family business for 21 years, will remain in power for another five years after the recent elections. Erdogan, who received 49.5 per cent of the votes in the first round, secured 52 per in the run-off elections last month. Main opposition leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu […]

Jihadist “Political Party” Supports President Erdogan

Huda-Par (Free Cause Party), a radical jihadist “political party” in Turkey, has announced its support for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his People’s Alliance (the religious and nationalist alliance) in the upcoming May 14 elections.  Huda-Par has roots in the outlawed Kurdish-Hezbollah which is responsible for the horrific executions in southeast Turkey during the 1990s. […]

A Month After the Earthquake: Humanitarian Situation Worsens

Millions of people are living in tents and informal settlements across earthquake-hit areas in Turkey. It has recently emerged that the Turkish Red Crescent sold tents to the earthquake victims after the quake. As a result, there are thousands of people who could not find any shelter, even a tent, in freezing weather conditions. Among […]

Turkey-Syria Earthquake Solidarity Appeal

Solidarity with the people of Turkey and Syria. This is an urgent appeal for Solidarity and assistance. Tens of thousands of people are dead, and hundreds of thousands are injured after earthquakes hit parts of Turkey and Syria. Solidarity with the People of Turkey (SPOT) is calling for donations to fund direct support and Solidarity […]

Corruption and misrule made Turkey’s earthquake deadlier

Videos of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, taken during a campaign stop of Turkey’s March 2019 local elections, have resurfaced showing him boasting about the amnesty programme in the earthquake epicentre that allowed contractors to ignore the safety codes and forgave faults in millions of buildings across Turkey. While campaigning ahead of local elections in 2019, […]

Birtek-Sen calls on workers for international solidarity

We, United Textile Workers Union (BIRTEK-SEN), with our members, executives and numbers of volunteers have been mobilized, day and night, to relieve the injuries caused by the earthquake chiefly in central Gaziantep and its districts as well as other affected cities such as Maras, Adiyaman and Malatya. In collaboration with Nar Art Society, we set […]

Turkey Earthquake: A preliminary report from the ground

The Chamber of Mining Engineers of Turkey has participated in the search and rescue operations in the earthquake zone and published the “Preliminary Investigation Report for the Earthquakes of February 6, 2023” on February 11, 2023. The report from the ground points out that the poor disaster response of the government and organisational structure of […]

Turkey Earthquake: “The main reason for this catastrophe is Erdogan”

Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the leader of the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), yesterday said in a statement: “I saw the state of our people with my own eyes. I refuse to accept that this situation is above contemporary politics and I refuse to align with the government (discourse).” Kilicdaroglu stressed that this catastrophe is exactly […]

Turkey Earthquake: Access ban on social media

Turkey’s government officials have waged a war on the media. Fahrettin Altun, Turkey’s Presidential Communications Director, yesterday proudly announced that a smartphone application called “Disinformation Reporting Service” is available to report people who are sharing “fake news” or “disinformation” online. The Directory also banned “nonaccredited” journalists’ access to the disaster area. Twitter – which has […]

Countries close their consulates in Turkey due to terror threats

It is known that terrorist incidents are frequently seen at the beginning of every election period in Turkey. In previous elections, the Erdoğan government received the electorate’s support through such events. This week, the Consulate of Britain, the Netherlands, Germany, France, Belgium and Switzerland in Istanbul were closed due to a new terrorist threat. 

Turkish elections to be held on May 14

Turkey’s general elections, which were supposed to be held on 18 June, will be held on 14 May. According to the election law, a person can only be president for a maximum of two terms. But President Erdoğan is looking for ways to take on the role for the third time by using a constitutional amendment […]

Turkey launches deadly attack on Kurds

Turkey has launched deadly airstrikes on the Kurds in Kobani, and various areas of North Eastern Syria.  These latest aerial attacks on Kobani and various other places in North East Syria are yet further examples that radical Islamists and their ideology are favoured and supported by Erdogan regime. The Kurdish groups in the region previously […]

SPOT Conference: Life & Resistance Under Erdogan’s Turkey

Starting as Prime Minister and cementing his premiership through rigged elections, referendums and an executive presidency, Tayyip Erdogan has managed to demolish the fundamental apparatus required for the rule of law and democracy since 2002. He is responsible for Turkey’s economic, cultural, political and ecological demise. At its 4th conference, SPOT invites you to join […]

Prisoners denied fundamental rights and access to a fair trial

Makbule Ozer, an 80 year-old mother is in prison in Turkey on so-called charges of “aiding and abetting a terrorist organisation”. She has been denied an application for release made by her lawyers on grounds of her serious illness and deteriorating health. Ozer’s case was not reviewed at Forensic Medicine Institute (ATK) on the grounds […]

The advertisement bans on Evrensel must end!

Evrensel Daily, a Turkish daily workers’ newspaper which has been subjected to considerable harassment from the establishment since it first went to print in 1995, recently received Press Advertising Agency (BIK) decision revoking its right to receive public ads.  BIK is the authority in Turkey responsible for the distribution of state advertising and which is […]

Turkish Pop Star’s arrest over joke on religious schools sparks outrage

A Turkish pop star, Gulsen was jailed on Thursday in relation to a joke she made on stage about religious schools in Turkey. She was jailed for commenting about one of her musicians, in particular saying that he is a pervert since he graduated from a “imam hatip” school (a type of islamic religious school).  […]

Turkish Finance Minister “Sticks Two Fingers Up” to the Public Over Inflation

Nureddin Nebati, Minister of Treasury and Finance, said  in a live broadcast that while chatting with a foreign country’s minister about the rocketing inflation in Turkey, he told him that “I can go out and mingle with the public even with this high inflation rate while you cannot do it with 10%”.  Nebati’s remarks have […]

Sect leader’s funeral reveals close links government officials

According to various Turkish outlets hundreds of thousands of men have attended a so-called cleric’s funeral in Turkey on 24 June. Mahmut Ustaosmanoglu, a notorious Islamic sect leader was mostly known for his hostility towards women. He wouldn’t want women in his funeral and his sect said “please obey his wishes” in a press release. […]

Femicide in Turkey: Another Family is Fighting for Justice

Pinar Gultekin (27), was brutally killed by Cemal Metin Avci on July 21, 2020.  The charge filed for the murderer Cemal Metin Avci was “killing with monstrous feeling or by tormenting”. There were also other collaborators charged with “destroying, hiding or tampering with criminal evidence” in the case, namely murderer’s brother Mertcan Avci, his mother […]

Massive Crackdown on Kurdish Journalists

In Diyarbakir, a Kurdish-majority south-eastern province of Turkey, 20 journalists who were working in various media outlets such as Dicle Firat Journalists Association (DFG), Mesopotamia News Agency and Jin News have been under arrest since 8 June. No official charges have been pressed. Erol Onderoglu, the Turkey representative for Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said that […]

Erdogan calls protestors sluts

President Erdogan once again used cheap words to insult the dissidents in Turkey. On the 9th anniversary of the Gezi protests, the fiercest anti-government unrest in Turkey for years, he branded the protestors as “sluts”, “terrorists” and “rotten”.  Erdogan, who is known as the “most insulted” head of state, did not hesitate when using offensive […]

Kurdish Culture Banned

Kurdish musicians and actors are being banned from performing in Turkey. Prominent Kurdish singer and composer Aynur Dogan – who recently performed at the Barbican as part of the London Jazz Festival- was one of the banned artists. An Islamist-Nationalist municipality in Kocaeli cancelled Dogan’s concert without specifying any reason.  Soon after leading Kurdish duo Metin […]

Crossroads for Opposition in Turkey

Canan Kaftancioglu, a leftwing leading Turkish politician who challenged the ruling Islamist AKP’s power during 2019’s mayoral campaign has been banned from politics.  Kaftancioglu has been sentenced to 4 years 11 months in prison for insulting “the President of Turkey” via her tweets in 2013 and 2014.  Kaftancioglu was expecting this sentence for sometime since […]

Statement of Solidarity with Imprisoned Gezi 8

Signatories of a petition released today in Turkey sent a message of solidarity with the Gezi 8. “Whatever they said or did during the Gezi movement, we did the same, we said the same words. If they are convicted, we must be convicted too. If they are considered guilty, we are guilty too. We are […]

PROTEST – Free the Gezi 8!

Saturday 7 May 2022 at 11am / Turkish Embassy, London Join the protest against Turkey’s criminalisation of Gezi and help strengthen the call for the Gezi 8 to be released. On 25 April, a Turkish court sentenced Osman Kavala to life imprisonment for allegations of “attempting to overthrow the government by force” during the 2013 […]

Pegasus Sacks Workers for a Drinking Post

Pegasus Airlines – a privately owned economy airline in Turkey – sacked their workers due to a shared photo of a social gathering. Workers from the airline shared a photo on social media showing them drinking alcoholic beverages with a note saying “may God accept” and a tag related to a holy Islamic day.  The […]

SPOT Supports The Gezi Resistance

A Turkish court in Istanbul has sentenced Osman Kavala to aggravated life imprisonment on the account of allegedly “attempting to overthrow the government” in 2013. The court also sentenced seven activists to 18 years imprisonment with an order for their immediate detention for “aiding the attempt. ”  The trial, widely referred to as the Gezi […]

Anti-refugee Hostility Rises in Turkey

Recep Tayyip Erdogan, leader of Turkey’s ruling Islamist-nationalist coalition recently said that “We are trying to send migrants by their own will. ”  Erdogan’s statement came amid rising hostile environment towards migrants in Turkey in recent times.  Public misery due to the soaring living economic conditions accompanied by social polarisation has made the hostility more […]

Intention to Abolish Co-education in Turkey

A school head teacher in Turkey has formally announced an arbitrary classroom sitting plan which bans interaction between boys and girls.  Haydar Akin, the Islamist head teacher in Bursa (a northwestern province in Turkey) ordered the school staff in official correspondence not to allow girls to sit next to boys in the classroom. The Bursa […]

Polarisation increases in Turkey

Mahire Yenturk, a council worker in Turkey has lost her job for sharing a photo of Selahattin Demirtas’, former co-chair of Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), on her personal social media account.  Yenturk was forced to resign after she was labeled as a “terrorist” on a local newspaper that published a story about her social media […]

Doctors on strike over worsening conditions in Turkey

Healthcare professionals across Turkey, represented by the Turkish Medical Association(TTB) are on a one-day strike today.  Doctors say that they are calling on the government for new regulations since they are suffering from the worsening economy  and the dysfunction of the national health care system in Turkey.  TTB made a statement saying “We are on […]

Privatisation Policies Kill

Isparta, a southwestern city in Turkey has been without electricity since Thursday 3 February.  The Governer’s office made a statement saying “There is a delay in restoring power due to disruptions on power transmission lines.” This power cut is solely because of the privatisation policies. Eighty percent of the electricity distribution has passed to private […]

Workers’ Resistance Map

In Turkey workers from all branches of the labour force are demanding that employers pay the price of the failures of the ruling class.  Do not expect us to pay for the crisis, say workers from various cities.  From couriers to metal workers,  you can follow the resistance all over Turkey on this workers’ protests […]

Prisoners with underlying health issues at risk in Turkey

Turgay Deniz, 39,  a prisoner in Turkey, passed away on 1 February. Deniz, was a tuberculosis patient with a tube inserted into his left lung for nearly 12 years. According to Meltem Akyol’s report from Evrensel daily, Deniz was imprisoned pending trial since February 2021.  Turgay Deniz was one of many in Turkey’s overcrowded prisons […]

SPOT Calls For Farplas To Respect Trade Union Rights

Workers at the Farplas in Gebze occupied the factory on January 31. They urged employers to respect the right to join a trade union and to reinstate their dismissed unionised co-workers. Protests at the factory began last week after Farplas, which manufactures components for the major automotive brands, fired 150 workers for leading an unionisation […]

“Do Not Overreact to The Killing”

Abdulgaffar Dayan, 23, died on 26 January after being hit by a state-owned vehicle on January 24 in the Sirnak province in the southeast of Turkey. Mezopotamya News Agency (MA) reported that the vehicle which hit him was an escort vehicle of the trustee mayor of municipality of Cizre, located in Sirnak.  Mehmet Sait Dayan, […]

Erdogan’s “necessary measures” is a further assault on the media

Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the president of Turkey yesterday issued a circular designed to muzzle the media under the pretext of protecting “youth and the family values.” President says “necessary measures” will be taken against media outlets that endanger “family and common values.” Erdogan’s Islamist rule systematically assaults media by shutting down critical outlets and by […]

Islamists Target Famous Singer

Sezen Aksu, a famous Turkish pop star is the latest target of the ruling Islamist-nationalist alliance of Turkey.  Bigoted Erdogan supporters targeted Aksu on the pretext of “insulting religious values” citing lyrics in a song recorded five years ago. In the song, the lyrics references are “Say hello to the ignorant Eve and Adam…”.  Fanatics […]

Vendor Burns Himself to Death Over Poverty

Suleyman Ekici, a 63 year old street vendor, set himself on fire and last week died in a hospital in Muğla, in the southwestern province of Turkey. According to Health and Safety Labour Watch bulletin, Ekici burnt himself to death after police did not allow him to work on the street. He was living in […]

Protest for Free Sanitary Towels

Women activists demanding sanitary products to be free of charge, were arrested in Ankara, the capital city of Turkey on January 18. “Sanitary towels and tampons are basic necessities, they are not luxury products” said the protestors who were gathered in front of the parliament. The number of women who are unable to afford sanitary […]

Attacks On Refugees Intensify In Turkey

Racists have attacked a shopping mall with shops owned by Syrians at Esenyurt district of Istanbul on January 9, Sunday. A dozen racists chanting anti-Syrian slogans threw stones at the shops. According to the shop owners, the attack in the neighbourhood came after a refugee from Palestine who was escaping the attackers took shelter in the shopping mall.“Two people were injured and seven people, including four children, were taken into custody.” according to the Istanbul Governor’s Office in a […]

Youth despairs due to poverty in Turkey

Enes Kara, a 20 year old medical student, killed himself two days ago. In his final note Kara says that poverty forced him to resort to a dorm run by an Islamist sect and he can not stand the compulsory “religious” practices and degrading treatment anymore.   As the political and economic conditions deteriorate in […]

Racist Burns Syrian Workers to Death in Turkey

The Human Rights Association Izmir branch (IHD) reported that three Syrian men were burnt alive in a racially motivated killing on 16 November 2021 in Turkey. According to the press release of IHD, a Turkish man (identified just as Kemal) set alight Mamoun al-Nabhan (23), Ahmed Al-Ali (21) and Muhammed el-Bish (17) after pouring gasoline […]

Political prisoner Hanged in solitary confinement

Garibe Gezer, a Kurdish woman has died in a suspicious way in the Kandıra F-Type Prison, which  is known as one of the most notorious secure prisons in Turkey. Garibe, a member of the Democratic Regions Party (DBP) died in solitary confinement after speaking out about the sexual assaults and torture she was subject to […]

Collective Punishment for Demirtas Family

A court in Turkey has sentenced Basak Demirtas, former People’s Democratic Party (HDP) co-leader Selahattin Demirtas’s wife to 30 months in prison  on “document forgery charges” due to a date typo in a medical report for sick leave. She had medical operations to resolve complications of a miscarriage and her physician is also convicted on forgery. The lawyers stated that the verdict was made deliberately when […]

Kurdistan is being denied

“Our language, identity and Kurdistan are denied.” said Cemil Taskesen, a Kurdish worker (Turkish citizen)  who is living in Siirt, a province in the South East of Turkey. He spoke to Meral Aksener during her visit to the region. Aksener is leader of The Good Party (IYI Party) which is affiliated with the nationalist far […]

Turkish Minister Targets LGBTQ

Suleyman Soylu, Turkey’s Interior Minister, once again used hate speech aimed at the LGBTQ community.  LGBTQ was one of the targets in his speech at Hak-Is confederation, a pro-Islamist AKP trade union, meeting.  The Minister said that they  (AKP government) have prevented LGBTQ activities so that “they will not spoil Turkish family values.” Soylu said […]

Turkey’s Business Association Targets Erdogan’s Regime

The Association of Turkish Industrialists and Businessmen (TUSIAD) has called for a change in the current political system of Turkey. TUSIAD criticised the current presidential system in Turkey which they’ve paved the way for by supporting President Erdogan for many years. The Businessmen’s Association called for the need of democratisation and secularism in Turkey at […]

Erdogan’s latest family scandal

TUGVA (Turkish Youth Foundation), which is affiliated with TURGEV (Turkey Youth and Education Service Foundation) is the latest scandal linked to President Erdogan in Turkey. Erdogan founded TURGEV in the 1990s, and his close family members and his inner circle sit on the board of the foundation. After the corruption scandal about Erdogan’s family in […]

Turkey’s “Moral” dresscode in public dorms

“Cihannuma Kız Ogrenci Yurdu”, a public funded dormitory for higher education in Turkey’s İzmir distict has announced a “moral” dresscode for students. Administration ordered the residents to dress “morally. ” According to Derya Dogan’s report from Yeni Yasam, a public funded dormitory announced to the students that they could no longer walk inside the perimeters […]

Turkey Deports Cypriot Journalist

Ali Kismir, President of the Press Workers’ Union (Basın-Sen) of northern Cyprus, was detained at Istanbul Airport and deported for “security reasons.” The journalist said that he was deported due to his support for the presidential candidate Mustafa Akinci in the latest election in northern Cyprus. At the time of the elections there were serious […]

Baldur Srike Ends After Workers Win Their Union Rights

A strike involving workers at the Baldur Factory in Sekerpinar Organised Industrial Zone in Gebze, has been called off after a massive win for workers.  Baldur workers who manufacture suspension components and other parts for the automotive industry went on strike for 281 days in order to push for recognition of their trade union rights. Along with the determination of the striking workers, the powerful solidarity of representatives of major labour organisations both from Turkey and abroad paved the way for the victory.   Further background: 

Police Attack Waste Pickers in Istanbul

Turkish police raided waste warehouses yesterday in Istanbul on the pretext of public order and attacked workers with tear gas and rubber bullets. Three waste pickers have been arrested. There has been tension for some time between the Governor Office and waste pickers about the recent regulations on waste which are in favour with some big investors in recycling sector. Ali Mendillioglu, […]

Erdogan Attacks Bogazici Students Once Again

President Erdogan once again targeted the Bogazici Resistance and branded the students as terrorists in a speech yesterday. The Turkish president said: “I cannot accept a Turkey where there are students stamping on the rector’s car. We don’t need such students (…) these are terrorists who have infiltrated the university.” Since the start of 2021, Bogazici university students, staff, alumni […]

Turkey’s Separatist Kebab Shops

“Separatist kebab shops” said Devlet Bahceli, “are one of the reasons of unemployment”. Speaking at parliament today Bahceli, Chair of extremist right wing Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), incomprehensibly blamed the kebab shops for “aiding and abetting terrorism” and argued that they are one of the reasons of unemployment among the country. No one could understand what Bahceli is talking about and soon this nonsense statement became a topic […]

Armed Men Attack MP’s Home

Tulay Hatimogullari, Deputy Co-Chair of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) was attacked at her home last Friday by two armed men claiming to be undercover police officers. MP Hatimogullari said that this is not an isolated event since abductions of dissidents became widespread recently in Turkey. She also stated that they (HDP) have a pretty […]

Ex-EMEP Chair faces 15 Years Imprisonment

Levent Tuzel, the former MP and the former chair of the Labour Party of Turkey (EMEP) faces trial and up to 15 years jail over charges of terrorism and propaganda for participating in the activities of DTK.  DTK stands for the “Democratic Society Congress”, a non- governmental organisation that aims to draw attention to democracy […]

Students call for affordable student accommodation

There is a growing “Movement of the Unsheltered” protests against rising living costs and lack of affordable accommodation for students who are enrolled in universities in Turkey. Since last week students in seven cities are sleeping outdoors and camping, mainly at parks where they conduct their vigil. Students also have launched a campaign on social […]

Remarks on the Kurdish Question

Ercument Akdeniz, the chair of the Labour Party of Turkey (EMEP) said on Tuesday, that the Kurdish question is a fact in Turkey and “the denial of the democratic demands of the Kurdish people is the main source of this question.”  Akdeniz made his statement on Twitter regarding the current discussions about who will be […]

Emine Senyasar calls for support on 200th day of vigil for justice

Emine Senyasar, who lost her husband and two sons three years ago is calling for solidarity on Friday, September 24 which marks the 200th day of her vigil for justice. The Senyasar family were subjected to a brutal attack on 14 June 2018 which was launched by the relatives of Ibrahim Yildiz, an MP from […]

Another Kurdish Child Killed by Armoured Police Vehicle

Mihrac Miroglu (7) was killed by a Turkish policeman while riding his bicycle in front of his house in Sirnak province in the southeast of Turkey. According to Mezopotamya News Agency, Mihrac died shortly after the crash of an armoured vehicle on 3 September 2021. “The deaths involving the security forces and the vehicles they […]

Kurds brutally killed by Turkish Gang

Seven Kurds from the same family were brutally murdered today in a racist  attack in their home in Konya; a central province in Turkey.   The Dedeoglu family was threatened and racially abused by a gang of 60 grey wolf members earlier this month. The racist group said to the Kurdish family, “We are nationalists, […]

Gunman attacks HDP offices and kills employee in Turkey

Deniz Poyraz, a party employee at the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) Izmir branch was killed today in a brutal attack at the party office.   An armed attacker has been identified as  Onur Gencer. It is believed he entered the building in the early hours despite the presence of constant police force at the gate of […]

Gendarmerie opens fire on peaceful protest in Turkey

Turkish gendarmerie opened fire against villagers protesting the demolition of their barns for a marble quarry in the village of Gurpinar in Van eastern province of Turkey on 26 May 2021. “Where shall we go?” said the villagers stressing that their only source of income is livestock and they are afraid of the death of […]

SPOT calls for the immediate release of health care workers

Trade union leaders and the members of the Turkish Health and social service workers union (SES) were arrested last week. The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office claims that the SES members “operated under the name of ‘the public health committee’ but were connected with the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK).” It is believed that the prosecution’s […]

Organised Crime Leader Exposes AKP Corruption on Youtube

Sedat Peker, who was convicted for organised criminal activity in 2007 in Turkey, has broadcast a series of videos via his personal YouTube account. He has been in exile in Dubai for the last two weeks. He released allegations against well-known figures in Turkey including Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu, former Interior Minister Mehmet Agar and […]

In the face of Israel’s brutal crimes, we can’t remain silent!

SPOT Statement on Palestine Israel is attempting to ethnically cleanse Palestinian families from their homes in Sheikh Jarrah, occupied Jerusalem. As Palestinians protest in Jerusalem against these evictions, and Israel’s ongoing programme of ethnic cleansing, Israeli forces have responded with brutality, including an assault on worshippers at Al Aqsa Mosque that has wounded hundreds. Israel […]

Turkish Army Kills Civilian in Dersim

Murat Yildiz, a 28-year-old Kurdish man was killed by Turkish soldiers in Dersim (Tunceli) in eastern Turkey on 7 May 2021. Local sources said that Yildiz may have been killed by a drone (UAV) attack which occurred near the village of Agacpinar. Tunceli Gendarmerie Command said in a written statement that three members of Kurdistan […]

SPOT SENDS SOLIDARITY TO SISTERS IN TURKEY

On the 10th Anniversary of the Istanbul Convention SPOT sends solidarity to the hundreds of thousands of women in Turkey fighting back against the Turkish State’s attacks on women’s rights and gender equality. Violence against women has intensified during the Covid-19 pandemic in Turkey and gender inequality has been rife, with women workers more likely […]

Turkey bans sale of alcohol citing the precautions against the pandemic

The AKP and Erdogan’s regime has banned the sales of alcohol as part of its announcement that there will be a complete “lock down” between 29 April and 17 May in the effort to fight the spread of Covid-19. No support is to be available for workers and those living in poverty.  The decision to ban sales […]

Turkey’s Constitutional Court refuses examination of Cizre Massacre

The Constitutional Court in Turkey has rejected another application seeking accountability for the deaths of civilians who died in the basements of buildings in the Kurdish town of Cizre (in the province of Sirnak) during the imposition of curfew 5 years ago. Cizre was turned into a war zone under a round-the-clock military lockdown lasting […]

“Where is the $128 billion?”

The main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) in Turkey has accused Erdogan and his party of misuse of central bank foreign reserves to uphold the Turkish Lira in 2019-20. Economist have calculated that back then the sales by state banks to support the Turkish lira totalled $128.3 billion.   “Where is the $128 billion?” question […]

Turkish Medical Associations Protest Government’s Pandemic Response

“We don’t give up our right to life, stop deaths” protests, a growing movement of the Turkish Medical Association (TTB), were due to take place across Turkey today. In Istanbul representatives from various Medical Associations came together in front of the Istanbul Provincial Health Directorate to make a press statement about increasing concerns over the […]

Turkish police abduct MP Gergerlioglu from intensive care

Turkish police detained Omer Faruk Gergerlioglu, former People’s Democratic Party (HDP) MP on Friday at his home. Gergerlioglu’s parliamentary status was revoked last month due to a prison sentence on “terrorism” charges and he was sentenced to 2 years and 6 months in prison based on his social media post in 2016 where he retweeted […]

SPOT calls for an end to advertisement bans on Evrensel

Evrensel, a daily newspaper in Turkey, has once again been fined for using the word “attack” while reporting about the Bogazici resistance. The newspaper has been subjected to considerable harassment since it first went to print in 1995 but recently the AKP government has put the paper on its punishment agenda.   The Public Advertising Agency (BIK) -the authority in Turkey responsible for the distribution of […]

SPOT calls for the immediate release of detained Bogazici students

Bogazici University students in Istanbul are still under the attack of the reactionary AKP Government in Turkey and its police force. 12 students were detained on Thursday on campus as they gathered to protest against a university investigation into a student for carrying a rainbow flag during the earlier demonstrations. In addition to yesterday’s detentions, […]

Erdogan abuses powers to interfere in private lives of public in Turkey

Turkey’s President Erdogan is using executive powers, including arbitrary decrees to imprison politicians, declare anybody he disagrees with as terrorists, and shut down political parties.  He is taking decisions in the middle of the night on issues in which he has no authority. In a country where at least 400 women were killed in the […]

Campaign: write to your MP to call to account Turkey’s attack on the HDP and its MPs

Erdogan and the AKP’s attacks on elected democratic opposition, particularly the HDP have reached new heights. Many HDP MPs were already in prison and facing false charges of “terrorism”, including the former co-chairs of the HDP Selahattin Demirtas and Figen Yuksekdag. In recent weeks we have witnessed prominent HDP MP Gergerlioglu stripped of his MP […]

WITHDRAWAL FROM THE ISTANBUL CONVENTION SPARKS OUTRAGE

Turkey has pulled out of the Istanbul Convention -which protects victims of domestic and gender-based violence and prosecutes offenders- by an abrupt midnight presidential decree. The Council of Europe “Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence” entered into force in 2011. At the time Erdogan proudly announced the treaty by saying […]

Turkish Police arrest Human Rights Association Co-chair

Ozturk Turkdogan, Human Rights Association of Turkey (IHD) Co-Chair was taken into custody in the early hours of today in Istanbul. He has since been released.  “This is the latest and obvious example of the pressure on human rights defenders. We will keep informing the public about the process.” said IHD in a statement and […]

SPOT condemns attacks on HDP and it’s members

A Turkish prosecutor filed a case demanding the closure of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) which won 11.7% support with nearly 6 million votes in the 2018 parliamentary election. Turkey has a long history of shutting down pro-Kurdish political parties. The People’s Labour Party (HEP) in 1993 and People’s Democracy Party (HADEP) in 2003 were […]

Turkish Parliament Expels Prominent Opposition MP Gergerlioglu

A court in Turkey has sentenced Omer Faruk Gergerlioglu, People’s Democratic Party (HDP) MP to 2 years 6 months in prison on terror charges. Turkey’s parliament also stripped Gergerlioglu of his MP status today. Human Rights Watch (HRW) released a written statement yesterday urging Turkey to not expel Gergerlioglu from the Parliament. Hugh Williamson, Europe […]

Bogazici Indictment based on Religious Prohibitions

Seven students from Bogazici University, two of whom had been held in detention, have been acquitted at the first hearing in which they were charged with “publicly provoking the public to hatred and hostility”. The trial was held today in Istanbul. The prosecutor had demanded that the seven students be sentenced to between 1 and […]

SPOT sends International Women’s Day message to women in Turkey

As we celebrate international women’s day, your growing resistance against government attacks on women’s liberty, exploitation and discrimination in the workplace, gender inequality and violence against women is an inspiration to women all over the world. We stand with you and will continue to amplify your fight for democracy, freedom and equality in Turkey for […]

Erdogan’s Son-in-Law and ex-Treasury Minister still missing

Berat Albayrak, Erdogan’s son-in-law, had resigned publicly on social media from his position as Treasury Minister on 8 November. Since then Albayrak has not been seen and suspicions mounted that Erdogan is punishing him.  The opposition party expressed concerns about how 128bn dollars had been spent by the treasury whilst Albayrak was minister and began […]

Police prevent 8 March exhibition organised by women’s platform

A group of women congregating to set up the “8 March women’s resistance” exhibition, organised by Avcilar Women’s Platform, were blockaded by the police. The women who were kept waiting under blockade held up photos from the exhibition and staged a sit-in protest.  The Avcilar Women’s Platform met today at Marmara Street at the Egitim […]

Erdogan government targets opposition after failed military operation

Dilan Dirayet Tasdemir, HDP MP for Agri spoke out in response to Suleyman Soylu, Home Affairs minister, who described her as the “MP that went to Gare”.  Tasdemir, reacted to Soylu’s claim that she had previously been to Gare where 13 people recently died, saying “If you have this evidence, why didn’t you pass this […]

Boğaziçi Online Day of Action – Virtual Rally

Hundreds of academics, students, activists and trade unionists joined us in a day of action in solidarity with the Bogazici students in Turkey. Messages of support flooded in and a virtual rally was live-streamed on our facebook page. Chaired by Baroness Christine Blower, speakers included Tariq Ali (Journalist and Writer), Jeremy Corbyn MP, Umut Turem […]

Gare operation being used as an excuse for further crackdown in Turkey

The illegal assault of Turkish military in the Iraqi region of Gare has devastating consequences both for Turkey and the region. The attack on Gare, where 13 Turkish security personnel held captive by Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and 53 Kurdish guerrillas lost their lives alongside 3 high-ranking Turkish military officials conducting the assault, has raised […]

Turkey accelerates steps towards facism as 718 people arrested in 40 provinces in 24 hours

Anybody who dares to criticise or defend the truth faces arrest and imprisonment in Turkey. The oppression of opposition groups, particularly HDP members continues.  In the past 24 hours house raids and police operations have taken place in 40 provinces. 718 people, including HDP members and leadership,  have been arrested. The arrests in provinces such as […]

Poverty and desperation in Turkey lead to increasing suicides amongst workers

The deep socio-economic crisis under the AKP regime has led to working families and individuals facing poverty and desperation, with an increase in suicides particularly amongst young people.  Unal Cetinkaya, a 25 year old construction worker killed himself in what appears to be one of a series of five suicides in the last five days in Kocaeli, Turkey. “These are my final hours. I […]

Writer and women’s activist Aysen Sahin arrested

Aysen Sahin, writer at Evrensel newspaper and women’s rights activist was arrested at her home today and taken to İstanbul Police Headquarters. She shared news of her arrest on Twitter saying “Friends police are at the door, I am being taken to Vatan Police Station. I will get changed and leave. I was unable to […]

“I salute your courage”

Tariq Ali, sends solidarity message to the Bogazici resistance in a special interview with Evrensel. TARIQ ALI: I salute your courage. How and when the struggle for academic and other freedoms for minorities of every sort will end I cannot predict. But this moment in the history of modern Turkey will not be forgotten thanks to […]

Erdogan attacks Bogazici Resistance

President Erdogan once again branded the students of Bogazici University as terrorists in a speech to members of his ruling Islamist party today. Throughout his speech, Erdogan took several shots at the protestors who are demanding academic freedom. “This country will not be run by terrorists. We will do whatever is necessary to prevent this. […]

Bogazici resistance call for solidarity as detainees are beaten and tortured

Students at Bogazici University in Istanbul began their protests nearly a month ago against the appointment of a new rector by President Erdogan. As resistance grows, more than 220 people were detained over the solidarity protests in Istanbul and Ankara in the last two days. There are numerous posts on the social media displaying torture […]

Turkish police deploy snipers as Bogazici resistance grows

Bogazici University students gathered today following a call from the campus solidarity group to protest in support for the students who were arrested on 30 January.  The students were arrested over a collage illustration at a campus exhibition last week.  The exhibition where the mentioned artwork was displayed was part of the ongoing protests against […]

Turkey’s Interior minister uses hate speech against LGBT community

Students from Bogazici University have been arrested because of a collage at a campus exhibition. The artwork illustrates LGBT rainbow symbols alongside an image of a sacred Islamic site.   Arrests come on the heels of academics and students at Bogazici University protesting against a government appointed rector since the early days of January 2021. […]

Farmers to march to Turkey’s Capital against agricultural policies

Farmers across Turkey will march to the capital city on 2 February to protest the agricultural policies of AKP. This is their fifth protest in the last two months. According to Dilan Kutlu’s report from the ANKA Agency, farmers are warning that farming is no longer a viable livelihood and Turkey will face a devastating […]

Solidarity forced abducted Gokhan Gunes release

Gokhan Gunes, a left wing activist has returned to his home six days after he went missing. At the time Gunes’ family had accessed a surveillance camera footage which captured the abduction of the 23 years old worker and stated that Turkish security forces were involved in his disappearance. As the incident created a public outcry, Gunes was dropped off blindfolded in a remote district of Istanbul yesterday morning. “The people who kidnapped and tortured me for days were calling themselves ‘the invisibles’” […]

Tanrikulu Report Reveals 27,493 Cases of Torture and Ill Treatment under AKP

At least 27,493 people were subjected to torture and ill-treatment by the police or the gendarmerie in Turkey during the 2002-2020 period. A total of 86 people have died as a result of torture under the ruling AKP government according to a report prepared by Sezgin Tanrikulu, regarding torture and ill-treatment in the country. Tanrikulu, […]

“We do not fear investigation” says Ankara Bar Association

In April 2020, the Ankara Bar Association criticised the Ministry for Religious Affairs for claiming that homosexuality and extramarital relationships spread illness in society. At the time, the Ankara Bar Association, criticised  Ali Erbas’ retention of his position as the Chair of the Ministry for Religious Affairs after his comments about homosexuality and noted that “having […]

Absurd reasons used to deny political prisoners parole

Didar Bozan, Merve Nur Isleyici and Ceylan Bozkurt were imprisoned for “terrorism” offences for attending press conferences and posting on the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) social media group while they were university students.  The three Kurdish women were convicted of “disseminating propaganda for an outlawed organisation” in 2016 as part of the politically motivated crackdown […]

Erdogan Insulted by Opposition Leader’s “So-called President” Remark

Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the leader of the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) criticised Erdogan on the occasion of January 10 Working Journalists Day in Turkey for targeting an opposition daily newspaper. “If, in 2020, a country’s so-called president is directly targeting a newspaper and telling people, ‘I am not reading that newspaper, you should also […]

Worker Death Toll in Turkey at least 2,427 in 2020

Health and Safety Labour Watch (ISIG) published its “Year 2020 Report of Workplace Manslaughters”. According to the report, last year, at least 2,427 workers lost their lives in workplace manslaughters. The report is compiled using information from the national press (66%) and workplace safety specialists, workplace doctors, trade unions and local press (34%). The number […]

Turkey’s media penalised for publishing news on government corruption

In 2018 it was revealed that Erdogan’s AKP, which governed Istanbul for 25 years, was responsible for embezzling 15 million Turkish Lira. In March 2019, the CHP, the opposition party which won the local elections in Istanbul began legal proceedings against the AKP. Following this development the Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Adil Karaismailoglu, banned […]

Erdogan’s mocking freedom of press speech

President Erdogan has claimed that under his rule media has become “more vocal and more free” in Turkey. The reality is that Turkey remains the worst jailer of journalists globally and is 154th inin the 2020 World Press Freedom Index.  Speaking on the occasion of January 10 Working Journalists’ Day, Erdogan said “As Turkey, we […]

Everyone can be branded a terrorist in Turkey

Bogazici University academics and students continued their fifth day of protests, which were sparked by the latest appointment of the rector Melih Bulu (a member of Erdogan’s Islamist AKP party). Erdogan accuses protestors, who are defending academic autonomy, and those supporting them of being “terrorism-related.” Meanwhile, students are rejecting the accusations and have posted a […]

Evrensel newspaper fined for anniversary advert featuring Kurdish colours

Evrensel, a daily newspaper in Turkey, which has been under intense pressure since it first went to print in 1995, has been fined for an advert featuring a girl holding a yellow, green and yellow scarf. The advertisement commemorated the 25th anniversary of the newspaper. The Ministry of Trade issued the fine alleging that featuring […]

Erdogan tightens grip on universities

President Erdogan tightens his grip on universities as he directly appoints Professor Melih Bulu as the rector of Bogazici University, which is one of the most respected universities in the country. Bulu has extremely close connections to Erdogan’s ruling party and is not from the university’s own academic community. The appointment has sparked reaction and […]

Police wait at hospital room to arrest woman following labour

Lawyers have criticised police in Turkey who have been waiting for Hacer Yildirim to be discharged from the hospital where she has just given birth. The decision to take into custody relates to the Bylock investigation (which concerns the use of a messaging app the government believes is linked to the Gulen movement).  34 year […]

Regular monitoring shows dire state of media freedom in Turkey

Baris Yarkadas, ex-opposition MP and journalist continues to release regular reports on attacks on journalists and the media.  The latest report paints a tragic yet unsurprising picture with respect to press and media freedom in Turkey, showing that in December 2020 alone: 35 journalists were brought before the courts, 4 journalists were sentenced to 42 […]

Protests called across Turkey after triple femicide in one day

Women across Turkey will take to the streets in protest following the murder of three women in one day.  In 2020 at least 419 women have been killed by men in Turkey. Yesterday three more women died in this way. In Istanbul, Aylin Sozer’s throat was slit and she was burned to death by Kemal […]

Turkey’s main opposition leader warns “Erdogan is a dictator”

Kemal Kilicdaroglu, chairman of the main opposition the Republican People’s Party (CHP), warns that Turkey is on course for a deeper economic and social disaster and reiterated his call for a snap election. “At present Turkey is ruled by a dictator. All Erdogan’s features are in keeping with the definition of a dictator by any […]

The case of Olay TV – A new low in Turkish Broadcasting History

Privately owned Olay TV has been subject to intense questioning by pro-government circles over its nonpartisan coverage of news stories and has been shut down after just 26 days on air on National TV.  Suleyman Sarilar, Chief Editor of the channel said that Cavit Caglar (the channel’s owner) claimed he is under “great pressure from […]

Baldur Factory Workers Strike for Union Recognition

Workers at the Baldur Factory in Sekerpinar Organised Industrial Zone in Gebze, which manufactures suspension components and other parts for the automotive industry, were fired in 2016 for joining a branch of Birlesik Metal Is (United Metal Workers) Union, a progressive labour union.   At that time the workers were forced to become members of […]

Notorious Judge Gurlek Sentences Exiled Journalist Can Dundar to 27 years in Jail

Can Dundar, a prominent journalist in exile since 2016, has been sentenced to 27 years in prison. This sentence is considered a continuation of the imprisonment of journalists through the use of arbitrary terrorism charges, as well as persistent harassment and suppression of media freedom by Turkey’s ruling AKP. The sentence issued to Dundar relates […]

Journalist Özcan Yaman fined for criticising President’s son

Özcan Yaman, an Evrensel journalist in Turkey has been fined 10 thousand lira for an article in which he criticises the Turkish President Erdogan’s son. The article concerned the 2014 telephone calls between the President and his son, Bilal Erdogan, which were leaked to the press. The phone calls revealed the bribes and corrupt way that […]

European Human Rights Court orders immediate release of Selahattin Demirtas

The Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights has ordered Turkey to immediately release from prison the prominent opposition politician Selahattin Demirtas (former co-chair of Peoples’ Democratic Party – HDP).  The grand chamber ruling found that Demirtaş has had his freedom of expression, liberty and right to free elections breached, stating that his […]

SPOT calls for Freedom for Leyla Guven

Leyla Guven, former Peoples’ Democratic Party MP (HDP) and co-chair of the Democratic Society Congress (DTK), has been sentenced to 22 years and 3 months in prison under the pretext of “establishing and leading a terrorist organisation.” The ruling AKP accuse all progressive democratic opposition of terrorism as a means of silencing and suppressing growing […]

Scores of women detainees reveal prevalence of torture and degrading treatment

Recently the declarations of an increasing number of woman detained on terrorism charges show that Turkish security forces are using strip searches systematically to enforce fear and to humiliate. Omer Faruk Gergerlioglu, MP from Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), who brought up the claims regarding strip searching of female detainees across Turkey, said that in some […]

Academic calls universities brothels

Known for his closeness to AKP, Sakarya University Faculty Member Prof. Dr. Ebubekir Sofuoğlu targeted young people by saying ‘Universities are brothels’ In the program named “Derin Kutu”, presented by Sabri Balaman on Akit TV (a mouthpiece for AKP and Erdogan’s propaganda), Prof. Dr. Ebubekir Sofuoğlu, speaking about the generation Z, said that participation in […]

Erdogan directs judiciary to keep Demirtas and Kavala behind bars

Turkey’s President Erdogan has given a clear instruction to the judiciary to keep the jailed former co-leader of Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), Selahattin Demirtas, and the human rights campaigner, Osman Kavala, behind bars. When asked to comment on the unjust ongoing detention of Kavala and Demirtas, Erdogan said “Demirtas is a terrorist” and the “judiciary […]

AKP registers all rainbow themed products 18+

Recently colours of the rainbow have become a political issue in Turkey. A few months ago Egitim-Sen, the Teachers’ Trade Union in Turkey announced that school principals were receiving orders from local education directorates raising concerns about rainbow drawings. According to the Union’s statement, the Ministry of National Education has ordered teachers not to allow students to draw rainbows during the COVID-19 pandemic, […]

Reporting ban on new child abuse revelations in Batman

It has been reported that on 12 November 2020, a 15 year old child reported that she had been raped and got pregnant, to the Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office in the southeastern Batman province of Turkey.  Further revelations about the sexual abuse experienced the minor were uncovered by Jinnews, a women-centered news agency, however many […]

Teenage boy shot and killed by Turkish soldiers

Ozcan Erbas, a 16-year-old Kurdish boy was killed by Turkish soldiers in Hakkari -a southeastern province of Turkey- on 30 November 2020. According to the Mezopotamya News Agency (MA), SabriErbas, the victim’s uncle, said that Ozcan Erbas was having picnic at Anadag district with his two friends when the soldiers opened fire on them.  “We went to take him after learning about the incident, soldiers did not allow […]

Female worker at Kromsan factory fired for complaining about violence

A female Kromsan factory worker in Manisa named Selma Cetin shared her story on social media, after she experienced violence at the hands of an assistant foreman and then had her rights infringed by factory management. The factory management declined to watch the security camera footage and instead decided to fire Selma Cetin by alleging […]

The myth of the “Independent Judiciary” in Turkey

Turkey’s Council of Judges and Prosecutors (HSK) has appointed 11 judges and prosecutors as new members to the Supreme Court of Appeals. The appointment came shortly after President Erdogan’s highly debated announcement about new judicial reforms aimed at stabilising the legal situation – one of the most fiercely debates topic in the country. In the […]

Unionised Metal workers targeted by employers

Turkish authorities, who are notorious for breaching the international labour standards, continue to violate fundamental labour rights through illegal tactics. Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, unpaid leave has been used as a stick against workers which reveals the unequal impact of the pandemic in the labour market compared to the other segments of […]

Police officer guilty of killing student is acquitted

Kemal Kurkut, 23 year old university student at the Fine Arts Faculty, was killed by police during the Newroz celebrations in Diyarbakır -a southeastern province of Turkey- on 21st March 2017.   According to the Dicle News Agency (DIHA) Kurkut was shot despite a “Don’t shoot” order of the police chief.  The published photos of the murder were documented by DIHA editor Abdurrahman Gok at the […]

WEBINAR: Women’s Rights and the Struggle in Turkey

Economic and social inequality, and violence against women and girls continues to rise in Turkey, but women refuse to bow to the AKP’s regressive policies and attacks on women’s rights. In preparation for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, SPOT, together with Day-Mer Women, have organised an online webinar […]

Release for men who violently kill innocent woman

Kudret Yener’s throat was slit by two men during a violent robbery in the southern Turkish city of Adana in 2017. A criminal court yesterday sentenced the defendants, İsmail and Vural Yetik to aggravated life imprisonment for the murder of the 72 year old woman. Aggravated life sentences of the offenders were reduced to a […]

Turkish authorities wage war on colours… Yellow, Red and Green

The deputy mayor of Istanbul’s Kucukcekmece district – which is led by main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) – has been suspended from his duty following an investigation related to a playground renewal in the region. The investigation is about the colours and shapes on the rubber surfacing of the playground allegedly resembling the colours […]

Impunity for killings by police in Kurdish Provinces

  Omer Yeğit, a Turkish policeman crashed an armoured vehicle into a house in Silopi -a town in Şırnak province in the southeast of Turkey- killing siblings Muhammed (7) and Furkan Yıldırım (6) as they were sleeping inside their house on 3 May 2017. Shortly after, Ali İhsan Su, who was then the governor of […]

Earthquakes don’t kill people but Governments do

As of today at least 111 people died and 1034 people have been injured in İzmir, the coastal city of Turkey, after a strong earthquake struck in the Aegean Sea on Friday 30 October. According to Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) the magnitude of the earthquake was 6.6, on the other hand the United […]

We stand with Jeremy Corbyn

As Solidarity with the People of Turkey, we stand with Jeremy Corbyn and condemn his suspension from the Labour Party. Corbyn has a strong record of campaigning against racism in all its forms and repeated this week that one antisemite in the Labour party is one too many. He has actively stood up for the […]

Turkey downplays strength of earthquake as death toll rises

Turkey’s coast (Izmir) and north of the Greek island of Samos were struck by a 7 magnitude earthquake yesterday, in which homes were destroyed and many have been killed and injured. Turkey claimed the magnitude was lower, at 6.6, but it is widely accepted that this is inaccurate. Prof Dr Övgün Ahmet Ercan from Istanbul Technical […]

Charlie Hebdo cartoon mocking Erdogan stirs new debate on freedom of speech

Charlie Hebdo, the French satirical magasine, caused a stir by publishing a cartoon, mocking Turkey’s President Erdogan. The front page caricature of the latest edition of Charlie Hebdo, depicts Erdogan in underpants and lifting up the skirt of a woman wearing a hijab to reveal her naked bottom and his speech bubble says “Ooh, the […]

Turkey forbids healthcare workers from resigning or retiring

Turkey’s Health Ministry issued a circular today announcing that “due to the coronavirus pandemic measures” resignations of the health workers would not be accepted. According to the document, healthcare workers will not be allowed to take their annual leaves and retirement procedures were also suspended with mandatory exceptions. Healthcare workers in Turkey were resigning to […]

Opposition events and protests banned in Van province in Turkey for five years

  The governor of Turkey’s eastern province of Van, has once again issued an order which bans all protest marches, open-air meetings and press statements within the boundaries of the city for 15 days as of October 21. The ban which supposed to be temporary under exceptional circumstances has been extended for multiple times since […]

President Erdogan says Macron “needs mental health treatment”

Turkey’s president, Erdogan, has criticised the projection of caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad onto buildings following the beheading of a teacher in France and targeted Macron. Erdogan said of Macron that he needs “mental health treatment”. French president Emmanuel Macron, recalled Herve Magro, his ambassador in Ankara to Paris to consult. In relation to Erdogan’s […]

Turkey to build 39 new prisons in 2021

Turkey’s parliament discussed the country’s 2021 budget which aims to allocate 24 billion Turkish lira (£ 2.4 billion) for expenditures of the Ministry of Justice. According to Turkish media the Ministry of Justice plans to spend significant portion of this amount for the construction of 39 new prisons. This means that Turkey’s already extremely high […]

Governor orders closure of restaurant because the worker did not recognise him

Ali Fuat Atik, the governor of Denizli -southwestern province of Turkey- has stirred a debate on the social media about his attitude towards shopkeepers and workers. As seen on the videos uploaded to various Twitter accounts, Atik was visiting shops as part of Coronavirus inspections and a worker at a restaurant did not recognise him. […]

Turkey monitors activists using illegal German Spyware  

German authorities have raided the offices of FinFisher, a Munich software company, which makes surveillance tools and has been accused in the past of providing software to oppressive regimes. German prosecutors launched the investigation upon the criminal complaint of GFF (Society for Civil Rights), a Berlin based non-profit human rights organisation. According to “zdnet.com” – […]

Turkish Court refuses to comply with Constitutional Court Order in Berberoglu case

Today a Turkish court refused to comply with a retrial order by the Constitutional Court, despite being legally required to do so. The retrial order states that Enis Berberoğlu’s (a former MP from the main opposition Republican People’s Party – CHP) right to be elected and engage in political activities and right to personal liberty […]

Turkish Forces Kill Four People By Forcing Them Into Minefield

Four people from the northern Syrian city of Heseke have died in a border minefield at the Kızıltepe district of Turkey’s Mardin province. According to Mezopotamya News Agency (MA), the horrendous incident was revealed when the survivors of the refugee group were taken into custody and were brought to the public prosecutor’s office for deportation. […]

“Turkey threatened me” says Turkish Cypriot Leader Akıncı

Mustafa Akıncı, Turkish Cypriot leader, who is running for a second term for presidency, said in a TV interview today that he has been threatened for being a candidate, by an authority who is affiliated with Turkey’s leadership. Akıncı said that they conveyed their message through his own executive assistant and told him that it […]

Journalists detained for exposing the torture of Kurdish villagers by soldiers

Turkish police have raided the office of Mezopotamya Agency (MA) and the homes of several journalists in Turkey’s eastern Van province on October 5. MA reporters Adnan Bilen and Cemil Uğur and Jin News reporters Şehriban Abi and Nazan Sala have been detained. Police forcibly deleted the other reporters’ camera shootings of Cemil Uğur’s detention. […]

Controversial Bill targeting Turkish Bar Associations is passed

Despite public outcry in July, the Turkish government has passed a controversial bill which changes the Turkish Bar Associations election procedures. The main purpose of this legislative amendment is to disempower bar associations in larger cities in the country. Bar associations are fierce critics of the government and their violations of human rights. The amendment […]

“September is the Darkest Month” says Turkey Press Freedom Report  

Utku Çakırözer, MP from the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), has published the Press Freedom Report in Turkey for September 2020. Çakırözer said that “September is the darkest month of this year with regard to freedom of press.” According to the report, during September more than 60 journalists were on trial and 14 journalists face […]

More HDP members detained as Turkey’s crackdown on Kurds deepens

Ayhan Bilgen, ex-MP from the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) and the co-mayor of Kars province in the east of Turkey, was detained on 25 September for participating in the October 2014 protests against the siege of the Syrian Kurdish town of Kobani by Islamic State, alongside of many other prominent members of the party. And […]

Controversial Regulation to Tighten Turkey’s Grip on Social Media

Turkey, the world’s worst jailer of journalists, continues its crackdown on dissident voices. Turkey has introduced new legal provisions, which controls and monitors use of social media platforms. Social media is currently the main channel for opponents and campaigners, and these new rules threaten the existence of social media platforms in the country both through costly […]

Turkey punishes another TV channel by blackening out its screens

Halk TV in Turkey has been ordered to black out its screen for 5 days by the TV and Radio governing body (RTUK) for a program they broadcasted. The body accuses the channel of offending and underestimating the Turkish Armed Forces. It also accuses the channel of going against the rules set by the governing body which […]

Prosecutors order the arrest of dissidents, including Kurdish Opposition

In the early hours of 25 September in Turkey, 82 people, including former executives and prominent members of Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), were arrested for participating in the October 2014 protests against the siege of the Syrian Kurdish town of Kobani by Islamic State. Back then huge protests took place in Turkey’s southeast in which protestors […]

Presidential Decree Issued To Confiscate Villagers’ Land

Every day Turkey is becoming a more eco-destructive country and a highly controversial project is again on the country’s agenda. The Biogas plant project at Çapaklı, a village in Turkey’s western Manisa province, is another example of the Turkish government’s support of construction with no regard for the environmental impact. Residents of Çapaklı, a village […]

Security Forces raid activists’ resistance area in Mount Ida

The resistance against the mining operations of Canada-based Alamos Gold Inc and its Turkish subcontractor Doğu Biga Mining at Mount Ida (Kazdağları) in Turkey’s north western Çanakkale province has been continuing for 425 days. Activists say that the mining project will harm the natural cycle irreversibly by contaminating soil and water sources to extract gold. […]

Evrensel columnist sentenced to 10 years and 6 months imprisonment

  Yusuf Karatas, columnist for Evrensel Newspaper has been sentenced to 10 years and 6 months in prison for participating in the Democratic Society Congress (known as the DTK) panel in 2011. Karatas spoke at the DTK as a member of the executive of the Labour Party of Turkey (Emek Partisi, or EMEP). Like Karatas, other executives […]

Soldiers throw villagers out of military helicopter in Turkey

Servet Turgut and Osman Şiban were detained on September 11 by soldiers conducting an operation in the Çatak district of Van province in the east of Turkey. According to eyewitnesses the two men were subjected to torture in the village square and then detained in a military helicopter. Other villagers who defied the detention were […]

Journalist Can Dündar’s property to be confiscated

Turkish courts have ruled in favour of confiscating Can Dündar’s property. Can Dündar was imprisoned for espionage in Turkey after exposing the Turkish National Intelligence Organisation’s (known as MIT) complicity in the provision of arms to ISIS. Dündar had taken the decision to publish the story when he was the chief editor of Cumhuriyet. During […]

100 musicians commit suicide in Turkey

100 musicians commit suicide in Turkey It has been announced that 100 musicians and singers have committed suicide in Turkey since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. The pandemic has caused significant hardship for those employed in the music  industry.  Throughout the pandemic there has been no government support provided to artists and musicians, many […]

Turkish Medical Association under threat in the midst of the pandemic  

Like countries all over the world, coronavirus continues to threaten lives in Turkey. Devlet Bahceli, the leader of the racist MHP (nationalist movement party) has called for the shutting down of the Turkish Medical Association. The Turkish Medical Association had said previously  that the Government are withholding the truth from the public and that the […]

Racist attacks in Turkey at dangerous levels

  Doğan Çetin, who was doing his compulsory military service in the western Turkey in Edirne was physically attacked by two soldiers for saying “wish we had been educated in Kurdish”. The attack took place on 15th August during which Çetin fractured his nose and forehead.  Çetin, who filed a complaint with the police, said […]

A man appointed to lead women’s office

In Mardin, a city in the south east of Turkey, where the people’s democratic party (HDP) won the local mayoral election, the government has dismissed the elected representatives and appointed Mustafa Yaman as the new administrator and also appointed a male administrator to the Women’s Office within the council. The appointed Abdurrahman Sahin is also […]

The Bar Human Rights Committee publishes Turkish version of Gezi Park Report

The Bar Human Rights Committee (“BHRC”) has published the Turkish version of its trial observation report of the “Gezi Park” trial of sixteen leading civil society individuals in Turkey. The report was first published in English in May 2020. BHRC closely monitored the “Gezi Park” trial of sixteen leading civil society individuals in Turkey and […]

SPOT sends message of solidarity to SF Trade workers

We stand in solidarity with the SF Trade workers who were sacked for their membership of Deriteks and are now facing a compensation claim for 200,000 TL SF Trade in Izmir Turkey, which produces luxury goods for international brands, has taken to court four leather workers who they previously unfairly dismissed for union membership. The women […]

Turkey’s taxes are being used to line the pockets of private companies

The AKP government claims to “bring to life new projects” and is having bridges, hospitals, tunnels, airports, dams and roads built all over the country. Private companies are carrying out these works which are being presented as “government services” to the public.  But all of these companies have “customer guarantees”.  When the companies building these […]

Criticism of ECHR President Spano’s visit in Turkey  

The President of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), Robert Spano paid a controversial visit to Turkey and met with President Erdogan. Many members of the judiciary and lawyers have criticised the visit. Spano, after a number of engagements, met with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who had previously said that the ECHR decision calling […]

Workplace deaths continue

Despite warnings workers continue to die in workplace accidents. This year already there have been 1306 workplace deaths in Turkey. In August 208 workers died in workplace accidents because of lack of safety precautions. The construction industry had the highest number of workplace deaths, but “accidents” are killing workers in mines, agriculture and factories too […]

Racist attacks on Kurdish workers

It is reported that 16 workers from the Kurdish region of Mardin Mazidagi, who went to Western Sakarya as hazelnut pickers were attacked by their employers and villagers. The workers had to return to Mardin after the attack. One of the victims of the attack, Baris Demir, said that they did not have any issues […]

Turkey censors news of cult leader’s arrest for child abuse

As of 3rd September access to all news stories relating to the arrest of Uşşaki Cult Leader Fatih Nurullah’s sexual abuse of a 12 year old girl have been blocked in Turkey. Nurullah, who is known for his closeness with Erdogan and the AKP, is reported to have offered 70,000 Turkish Liras to the child’s […]

TELE1 punished with five day black-out

    Media freedom is quickly becoming a thing of the past in Turkey. TELE1, a television channel that is not aligned with the Government, has been punished with a five-day black-out for critiquing President Erdogan and the AKP government.   The Supreme Council for Radio and Television (RTÜK) , which is known for its close […]

Turkey’s cultural and religious heritage is being destroyed

The Turkish state is destroying historical sites belonging to Assyrians, Jews, Armenians, Kurds and Christians across the country. Just recently the world famous Hagia Sofia Museum was converted into a mosque, and buildings of worship belonging to minority faiths Turkey regularly face either forced conversion into a mosque or wilful neglect and disrepair by the State. […]

Erdogan targets the lawyers in his opening address for the judicial year

On 1st September the 2020-21 judicial year was opened with a ceremony at the presidential palace in Turkey. The Bar Associations were not invited to the ceremony. In their absence, President Erdogan boasted about the reforms to “rights and freedoms” they had implemented and justified the purge of lawyers who stood in solidarity with the […]

Perpetrators walk free as 27 more women murdered in August

The Platform for Ending Femicide in Turkey has published their report on the murders of women in Turkey in August 2020. The report reveals that in August, 27 women were killed by men, and 23 women were found dead under suspicious circumstances. Of the 27 women murdered, the motivation was unclear in 16 cases. In […]

Attacks on media in Turkey continue at pace in August

Baris Yarkadas, ex opposition CHP MP and journalist, released a report on attacks on journalists and the media in August. Yarkadas publishes the report monthly, which shows that attacks on the media have been significant in August. The report shows that in August: 2 journalists were arrested, 2 journalists detained, 4 journalists faced trial, and […]

Turkey is the only country to ban the celebration of World Peace Day

Countries all over the world have been recognising World Peace Day and calling for peace on 1st September. Meanwhile in Turkey calling for peace is considered as “terrorism”. The People’s Democratic Party (HDP) wanted to call for peace in Diyarbakir, Van and Ankara but were met with police prohibitions and many people were arrested. The […]

MP Baris Atay attacked after being publicly targeted by Turkish Interior Minister

The Turkish Interior Minister, who had previously protected Musa Orhan (Ipek Er’s rapist), publicly attacked Worker’s Party MP Baris Atay. Soylu accused Baris Atay of being a rapist on social media. On the same evening (30 August) Atay was physically assaulted by 5 people and taken to hospital where he is recovering.  Ironically, the Interior […]

Turkish Health Minister lies about daily Covid-19 numbers

A number of Local Authority leaders in Turkey, including the Mayors of Ankara and Istanbul have publicly stated that the true number of Covid-19 cases and related deaths are not being disclosed. For some time medical chambers across the country and local authorities in areas such as Diyarbakir, Antep and Adana had been stating publicly […]

Erdoğan is warmongering in attempt to prolong presidency

The Turkish President Erdogan and his party the AKP, are meddling with their neighbours again with the aim of extending their time in government. A few years ago Erdogan used the Assad regime as a pretext for two major military operations targeting the Kurds in Northern Syria and occupying the area. In recent days the […]

TELE1 fined for airing an advert using Kurdish colours

Media outlets that are not pro-Erdogan and the AKP continue to be penalised in Turkey. Most recently TELE1 (which has previously aired Evrensel newspaper adverts) was fined for airing an Evrensel advert which contained Kurdish colours. This blatant racism and interference in media freedom is unacceptable. The Supreme Council for Radio and Television (RTÜK) in […]

Rapist Musa Orhan released by Turkish State

Military Seargent Musa Orhan raped 18 year old Ipek Er in the Batman in Eastern Turkey. Ipek Er committed suicide as a result. Musa Orhan, who is responsible for the death of this young woman, is being protected by the Turkish state because he served in the military and comes from a nationalist racist family. […]

‪Ebru Timtik, lawyer, dies after 238 days on hunger strike

Ebru Timtik, who was on indefinite hunger strike demanding a fair trial, has died in Bakırköy Dr. Sadi Konuk Hospital after 238 days. Timtik’s only demand was a right to fair trial and she had called on the Minister for Justice to intervene, but despite numerous warnings the government stood idly by – choosing instead to […]

Profiteering leads to loss of lives in flood hit Blacksea in Turkey

Floods hit the shores of Giresun in the Blacksea region of Turkey. Huge devastation hit the area of Dereli in particular. So far 8 people have died and 11 are missing. 17 buildings have collapsed and 351 buildings are damaged. Over 100 villages have become blocked off and 78 residential areas have lost their electricity.  […]

Turkish government watches as lawyers on hunger strike reach critical condition

The health of two lawyers, Ebru Timtik and Aytaç Ünsal, on indefinite hunger strike demanding a fair trial has reached a critical point. Ebru has been on indefinite hunger strike for 240 days and Aytac for 210 days. Their health is at risk and the Turkish government is standing idly by. The Justice Minister has […]

Turkish Bar Associations fight back

The Turkish Bar Associations stand firm against attacks on their independence Last week the main agenda across Turkey was the Government’s plan to change the way that the Turkish Bar Associations are organised and their electoral system. The Bar Association’s believe that the legal changes proposed would make the Bar Associations undemocratic and would result […]

SPOT TURKEY UPDATE – June 2020

Attacks on democratic opposition escalates and municipalities are prevented from supporting residents impacted by Covid-19     You can read the full statement here:  SPOT Turkey Update – June 2020    

Human rights defenders react to the police violence in Turkey

Human Rights Foundation of Turkey (TİHV) Chairwoman Şebnem Korur Fincancı and Human Rights Association (İHD) Chairman Öztürk Türkdoğan evaluated the police violence cases for Evrensel. Human Rights Foundation of Turkey (TIHV) Chairwoman Prof. Dr. Şebnem Korur Fincancı and Human Rights Association (İHD) Chairman Öztürk Türkdoğan reacted to the incidents of police violence from various parts […]

Members of European Parliament call on Turkey to end the public advertising ban on Evrensel

10 Members of the European Parliament called on Turkey’s Public Advertising Agency to lift the indefinite ban on Evrensel. In a letter addressed to Rıdvan Duran, the general director of the Public Advertising Agency (BİK), the authority in Turkey responsible for the distribution of state advertising, ten members of the European Parliament called for the […]

We have lost our columnist, architect Cengiz Bektaş

Cengiz Bektaş, one of Turkey’s leading architects who for long years wrote articles in our newspaper, has lost his life. We have lost our newspaper’s columnist, architect and poet Cengiz Bektaş. Holder of the Aga Khan and Mimar Sinan Grand Awards, Bektaş had been undergoing treatment for diabetes-related heart failure in an intensive care unit […]

SPOT Conference 2020 – What’s the latest?

The Turkish state’s attacks on human rights, workers rights and democracy is relentless, and President Erdogan’s war politics is fuelling further tension and instability, not just in Turkey but across the region. It is in this context that we have pulled our sleeves up and are finalising preparations for SPOT’s 4 th Annual Conference, which […]

Who is making money out of the war in Syria?

As President Erdoğan’s Idlib obduracy and AUAV strikes continue, the ruling media is making “national pride from national arms” propaganda, and son-in-law Selçuk Bayraktar is making money, too. Object of the power holders’ relentless obduracy, Idlib remains high on the agenda. Compared to before, it has become tougher to air the voice of truth among […]

The Erdoğan administration’s jihadist impasse and Kurdish quandary

With it now apparent that the Erdoğan administration’s aims are no longer feasible, one could describe the way it has become bogged down thanks to its obdurateness over its Syria policy as its “jihadist impasse and Kurdish quandary.” There is no let-up in either the Erdoğan administration’s obdurateness over Idlib or the deaths of soldiers […]

It has come to this: Refugees as instruments of war

Turkey is pushing refugees over the border and Greece is pushing them back. What we are watching is a Turkish-Greek jointly produced film of shame. The refugees are like a ping-pong ball toing and froing across the tennis table. The right-wing government in Greece is pitiless towards refugees. Be they old, children or handicapped, the […]

Idlib message from Selahattin Demirtaş

Former HDP Co-Chair Selahattin Demirtaş has made a statement following the death of 33 soldiers in Idlib. Former HDP Co-Chair Selahattin Demirtaş, detained for more than three years in Edirne Prison, has sent a message regarding the 34 soldiers who were killed in the air raid staged by the Syrian army in the Syrian town […]

Is a government to promise “martyrdom” to its citizens?

Erdoğan appears to have reached the stage of holding “martyrs” in a tighter embrace and saying, “God willing, the mound of martyrs will not remain empty” in accentuating the religious-ideological grounds for his policy. Speaking at a foundation-laying ceremony for the tram line in Izmir’s Kınık sub-province, for the second time in the past two […]

İlhan Uzgel and Kerim Has’s assessment: Idlib doggedness full of risk

Prof. Dr. İlhan Uzgel and Russia expert Kerim Has assessed the latest developments in Syria and Idlib for Evrensel. The Idlib tension continues to mount. The Ministry of National Defence announced the deaths of two soldiers and the wounding of another five soldiers in İdlib. At around the same time, the Anadolu Agency intimated that […]

The on-stage rifle is starting to go off in Idlib!

The picture painted in Idlib conjures up the words spoken by Russian playwright Chekhov to emphasise the connection of the stage set: “If in the first act there is a rifle hanging on the wall, it absolutely must go off at the end of the play.” Each day fresh news of conflict and death comes […]

IPI: BirGün’s announcement ban lifted, Evrensel’s to be lifted too

The International Press Institute (IPI) has announced that the announcement ban given to BirGün has been lifted by the Press Notices Institute and appealed for the same ban issued to Evrensel to be lifted at once. The International Press Institute (IPI) has announced that the announcement ban given to BirGün has been lifted by the […]

PAA rejects Evrensel’s objection to announcement ban decision – embargo continues

The Press Advertisement Agency has dismissed our objection to the announcement and advertising decision it issued whereby more than one newspaper may not be purchased. The Press Advertisement Agency (PAA) has once more dismissed the objection we made to the announcement and advertising ban penalty it imposed premised on newsagent sales. The Press Advertisement Agency […]

9 People Acquitted and Osman Kavala Discharged in Gezi Trial

The court panel in the Gezi case gave the verdict of acquitting 9 people and discharging Osman Kavala, the only defendant of the case in detention. The files of 7 people abroad were set aside. The sixth hearing of the Gezi court case of 16 people accused of “attempting to do away with the government […]

An “awareness” question: What business does Turkey have in Syria?

President Tayyip Erdoğan said: “Whoever says, ‘What business does Turkey have in Syria?’ is either unaware or intentionally an enemy of this people.” In the speech he made at his party’s parliamentary group meeting last tuesday, President and AKP General Chair Tayyip Erdoğan targeted those who criticize Turkish troops coming under fire and a state […]

Fighting for the right to join a trade union

CEREN SAGIR reports on an important workers’ struggle at SF Trade Leather in Izmir, Turkey BRITISH luxury fashion company Mulberry says it prides itself for being “ethically sourced.” Volkswagen Group UK Ltd says it has a “zero-tolerance approach to any form of modern slavery.” And Mercedes-Benz UK claims to have a “zero-tolerance policy towards violations […]

Strike bans are unconstitutional

Lawyer Ahmet Ergin discusses rulings the Constitutional Court has passed on strike bans: “Constitutional Court case law provides guarantees to workers intent on striking.” A fresh strike is in the offing for metal workers, their wages eroding day by day under conditions of economic crisis. Disagreement reigned at the Turkish Employers’ Association of Metal Industries […]

Cancelled press cards of Evrensel newspaper staff restored

The cancelled press cards of Evrensel newspaper staff have been restored. The cancelled press cards of Evrensel newspaper staff have been restored. When some Evrensel staff members consulted the “Press card search” section today, they saw the wording “in use” in place of the comment “annulled” they had previously seen. However, no comment in this […]

“The political wing” of “FETÖ”

As all know, is it not Erdoğan and the AKP who has not only been “the political wing of the coup” or Gülen but its partner? Was there not a partnership of power? First and foremost, my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the Elazığ earthquake. And my get-well-soon wishes […]

END TURKEY’S ATTACKS ON DEMOCRACY AND MILITARY AGGRESSION NOW

END TURKEY’S ATTACKS ON DEMOCRACY AND MILITARY AGGRESSION NOW     As the general election approaches voters are looking to our Parliament to recognise the impact that our foreign policy is having on the safety of innocent civilians not just in the UK but all over the world. Democracy is under attack in Turkey, with trade […]

EMEP Chairwoman Selma Gürkan penalized for her Afrin Operation critics

EMEP Chairwoman Selma Gürkan was sentenced on the count of ‘terrorist organization propaganda’ for her critics on the Afrin operation. Eylem NAZLIER İstanbul In a case brought for the speech she made in front of the judicial complex at the hearing of EMEP members who had been detained for handing out “No to war” leaflets, […]

Syrian refugee worker in Turkey: I’ve learnt workers have no nation

​​​​​​​ Saying, “I’ve been living in Turkey for about six years. I’ve learnt about both labour and exploitation here,” a Syrian worker calls for workers’ unity. A Syrian refugee worker I’m a 22-year-old Syrian refugee textile worker in Çağlayan. Fighting IS in Syria while aged sixteen, I fled Syria and came to Turkey at seventeen […]

Ekrem İmamoğlu takes office as İstanbul Metropolitan Mayor

Opposition CHP’s İstanbul candidate Ekrem İmamoğlu takes office as İstanbul Metropolitan Mayor. After 25 years, the İstanbul Metropolitan Mayoralty has passed from the AKP to the CHP.  İstanbul Metropolitan Mayor-elect for the CHP, Ekrem İmamoğlu, gets the certificate of election from provincial election council. Following seventeen days of objections, Istanbul Metropolitan Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu has […]

‘I Subscribe’ campaign continues with Evrensel and BirGün

The international ‘I Subscribe’ campaign’s second round supports the daily newspapers Evrensel and BirGün in Turkey. The second round of the international I Subscribe campaign, which encourages reader subscriptions to support independent newspapers in Turkey, is now open. I Subscribe is an initiative backed by the International Press Institute (IPI) and several other leading press […]

Jail sentences for 27 peace academics

Prosecuted for having signed the peace declaration titled, “We will not be party to this crime,” 27 peace academics have been handed down jail sentences. The joined case of 27 academics being prosecuted for having signed the peace declaration titled, “We will not be party to this crime” was heard at Istanbul Serious Crime Court […]

Candidates and alliances for local elections in Turkey on March 31

Aggravated life imprisonment is being sought for sixteen people including Osman Kavala under the investigation conducted into the Gezi Park Resistance. The investigation involving sixteen people, including Osman Kavala who has been in prison for fifteen months and actor Mehmet Ali Alabora, into the Gezi Park events has been completed. Aggravated life imprisonment is sought […]

Affirmatory ruling in Cumhuriyet trial: Eight people back to jail

The Appeal Court has upheld the sentences handed down in the Cumhuriyet newspaper trial. The ruling sees eight people who were sentenced to less than five years returning to prison. The Appeal Court has upheld the sentences that Istanbul Serious Crime Court No 27 imposed on Cumhuriyet newspaper’s former managers and columnists. The ruling sees […]

Candidates and alliances for local elections in Turkey on March 31

The period set by the SEC for announcing local election candidates has ended. Final adjustments have been made to the alliances. Birkan BULUT Ankara The Supreme Electoral Council (SEC)’s deadline for nominating local election candidates has ended. The picture to emerge following last-minute adjustments is that the AKP-MHP has broadened the alliance as its electoral […]

The future that those living in palaces in Turkey are imposing on people living in poverty

Because they live in palaces, they see unemployment, poverty and deteriorating living conditions for common people as just a rule of the game that they are playing. The unemployment statistics in Turkey from November show not just the shocking growth in unemployment but also signal that unemployment will reach intolerable levels in 2019. Unemployment consistently […]

Journalist Çağrı Sarı’s trial adjourned and Cem Şimşek acquitted

Former Evrensel responsible editors Çağrı Sarı and Cem Şimşek appeared before the judge. Çağrı Sarı’s hearing was adjourned while Cem Şimşek was acquitted. The adjudicatory hearing took place in former Evrensel responsible editor Çağrı Sarı’s trial over the Paradise Papers being heard at Bakırköy Penal Court of First Instance No 2, brought under a complaint […]

Direct sale points of Erdoğan government in 7 questions

Why have vegetable and fruit prices gone up in Turkey? Will direct sale points cure citizens’ woes? Are market traders to blame? We made a collation of the points of concern. Sinem UĞUR İstanbul The direct sale points proposed by the AKP-Erdoğan government with the purported aim of reducing fruit and vegetable prices have been […]

Panel Discussion: Media Under Authoritarian Rule

Description Join us to hear from Can Dundar, Deniz Yucel and Aidan White, who will share their experiences of the Turkish government’s purge of the media and censorship of journalists seeking the truth. Location                                             Date and Time NLCH                                                     Sun, 17 March 2019 22 Moorefield […]

Full text of our Editor-in-Chief Fatih Polat’s court statement

We are publishing the statement submitted to the court by our Editor-in-Chief Fatih Polat, who is on trial charged with “defaming the President.” Our Editor-in-Chief Fatih Polat, who is being tried on the charge of defaming the President for one of his articles and whose imprisonment for between one year and four years is sought, […]

EMEP Chairwoman Selma Gürkan’s punishment sought for her Afrin comments

The prosecutor has called for EMEP Chairwoman Selma Gürkan’s punishment on “terrorist organization propaganda” charges for her Afrin comments. Making his recommendations at the proceedings in which Labour Party (EMEP) Chairwoman Selma Gürkan is being tried on “terrorist organization propaganda” charges, the prosecutor sought Gürkan’s imprisonment for up to seven and a half years. A […]

SPOT – Annual Conference 2019

Description Our 3rd Annual SPOT Conference provides an opportunity to hear from those who have seen and experienced the reality of life under Erdogan’s authoritarian regime and invites you to find out more about what we are already doing to build international solidarity and call to account both the Turkish state and the complicity of […]

Ficticious voters emerge before the local elections in Turkey

Claims of bogus voters have been brought into parliament before the local elections in Turkey on March 31, 2019. HDP Iğdır Member of Parliament Habip Eksik has brought the irregularities and bogus voter records detected on the voters roll announced for the local elections in Turkey on March 31, 2019 onto the parliamentary agenda. Eksik […]

Unemployment rate in Turkey rises by 1.3% in October 2018 to 11.6%

A further 501,000 people joined the ranks of the jobless to make a total of 3.788 million. The youth unemployment rate rose by 3% in October to 22.3%. In October 2018, the unemployment rate in Turkey registered a year-on-year rise of 1.3% to stand at 11.6%. In the period in question, the records showed a […]

The ads are over in Syria, now it’s reality time!

Put to one side such advertising as ‘Turkey displayed its strength against the US’ and ‘Erdoğan has become world leader’ and look at the reality. Following US President Trump’s announcement in the phone call he had with President Erdoğan that they would withdraw their troops from northern Syria, I inquired, “Is Trump’s withdrawal decision Erdoğan’s […]

2019 will put Turkey’s ‘two red lines’ to the test

Looking ahead from 2018, it appears that Turkey’s neo-Ottoman Syrian policy involving two ‘red lines’ will have a very hard time of it in 2019. Apart from deeply embroiling Turkey in “Syrian crisis,” Trump’s announcement in the final days of 2018 that he would withdraw US troops has turned 2019 into a year of “dealing […]

In Turkey, 440 women murdered and 317 women suffer sexual violence, in 2018

Last year in Turkey, 440 women killed. 131 of the deaths entered the records as being suspicious and the perpetrators were not found. The We Will Stop Femicide Platform has produced a report quantifying violent incidents against women in 2018. The report points to an increase in women murders as against previous years. According to […]

Gripped with fear, the AKP-MHP alliance is heedless of the mere Constitution!

Bahçeli, Erdoğan and Yıldırım’s fears, on both the national scale and in İstanbul, about the local election appear not to be without foundation. President Tayyip Erdoğan announced the AKP and MHP’s İstanbul Metropolitan Mayoralty candidate today. Their candidate is Parliamentary Speaker Binali Yıldırım! The first question this invites is, “Can no metropolitan mayoral candidate for […]

Syrian refugees: Who wants to leave their own country!

What are Syrian refugees living in Diyarbakır’s Bağlar sub-province going through? Syrians living in the area told us. Fırat TOPAL Orhan KURUL Diyarbakır Disputes that have been raging of late between Syrian refugees and the Turkish population are turning into a lynch campaign against refugees both on social media and in the streets, and attacks […]

2018 labour report of Turkey: Wage erosion, unemployment more workers’ deaths

2018 saw unemployment, insecurity, poverty and death becoming cloaked in acceptability, the erosion of wages and an increase in workers’ deaths. The CHP Labour Offices under the coordination of CHP Deputy General Chair Veli Ağbaba have compiled a report on developments that took place in the world of labour and work. The report, which draws […]

Bosses get their wish: 2019 minimum wage has been set at 2,020 lira net

The minimum wage stays at the hunger level. The minimum wage, directly affecting ten million workers, has been set at 2,020 lira in 2019. The Minimum Wage Determination Commission has convened for the fourth time to set the minimum wage effective in 2019. The Minimum Wage Determination Commission has set the minimum wage, directly affecting […]

Strike at Süperpak ends in workers’ victory after 186 days

The strike at Süperpak lasting 186 days against the imposition of a zero raise has ended in victory for the workers. Metehan UD İzmir The 186-day strike at Süperpak has ended following the securing of a raise of 280 lira gross in the first year and, in the second year, 300 lira gross for the […]

Metin Akpınar and Müjdat Gezen released on judicial control terms

An investigation has launched into well-known actors Metin Akpınar and Müjdat Gezen, who spoke critically of President Tayyip Erdoğan. Actors Metin Akpınar and Müjdat Gezen, who spoke critically of President Tayyip Erdoğan while appearing on a TV programme, came under fire from President Erdoğan following a roasting in the regime press. With them singled out, […]

Is Trump’s withdrawal decision, Erdoğan’s victory?

How will Trump’s withdrawal decision from Syria and its potential consequences affect Turkey’s regional policies? News of Trump’s decision to withdraw his troops from Syria following the phone call he made with Erdoğan seems to have created an atmosphere of a great victory on the ruling front and in its media. “Experts” strutting their stuff […]

SPOT Annual Conference 2019

Turkey: Fighting for democracy under authoritarian rule Description Our 3rd Annual SPOT Conference provides an opportunity to hear from those who have seen and experienced the reality of life under Erdogan’s authoritarian regime and invites you to find out more about what we are already doing to build international solidarity and call to account both […]

The full text of Prof. Dr. Şebnem Korur Fincancı’s statement to the court

We are publishing the text submitted to the court by Evrensel columnist Prof. Dr Şebnem Korur Fincancı, who was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment. We are publishing the text submitted to the court by Evrensel columnist, academic & chair of Human Rights Foundation of Turkey, Prof. Dr Şebnem Korur Fincancı, who was sentenced to thirty […]

Campaign of solidarity with Evrensel launched in Germany

The German Federation of Journalists, the German Journalists Union and Reporters Without Borders have launched a campaign in support of Evrensel. In a display of sensitivity over the repression of the press in Turkey, German journalism organizations and journalists have launched a campaign in support of Evrensel, an independent labour-movement-focussed daily and one of the […]

Turkey ranks 130th for sexual inequality out of 149 countries

Turkey ranks 130th for sexual inequality in the World Economic Forum’s 2018 Global Gender Gap Report. The World Economic Forum’s 2018 Global Gender Gap Report shows the level of social sexual inequality has reached in Turkey. Ranked 105th in 2006, Turkey has dropped by 25 places over twelve years. The countries ranked lower than Turkey […]

Evrensel columnist Prof. Dr Şebnem Korur Fincancı gets 30-month prison

Evrensel columnist, academic & chair of Human Rights Foundation of Turkey, Prof. Dr Şebnem Korur Fincancı gets 30-month prison. Evrensel columnist, academic & chair of Human Rights Foundation of Turkey, Prof. Dr Şebnem Korur Fincancı gets 30-month prison. Fresh documents have been appended at the decision stage to the file of Evrensel columnist Prof. Dr […]

Naming a prosecutor brings ‘terrorism’ charge to Evrensel reporter Cansu Pişkin

Terrrorism charge has been laid against our reporter Cansu Pişkin citing as grounds her report on the detaining of the Bosphorus University students. A further trial has been added to those brought against Evrensel for our news coverage. A charge has been laid against our reporter Cansu Pişkin citing as grounds her report on the […]

Evrensel is facing 100,000 TL fine for criticizing government’s economic programme

Evrensel is facing court and a penalty of 100,000 TL because of a news story, criticizing the government’s economic programme. Evrensel is facing court and a penalty of 100,000 TL because of a news story published on 13 July 2018 arguing that the government’s economic programme signalled an attack on worker’s rights. The responsible editor […]

Manbij, East of Euphrates and the source of the problem

If there is going to be a winner in the escalating tensions in Manbij and East of Euphrates, this is not going to be Turkey – will be Russia and Iran. For some time, the government-controlled media have been broadcasting programmes aimed at escalating the tensions surrounding Manbij and the East of Euphrates. They are […]

EMEP Chairwoman Selma Gürkan’s trial postponed to January

The Labour Party (EMEP) Chairwoman Selma Gürkan is on trial, because of criticising the Erdoğan government’s war policies. Turkish government started a military intervention in Afrin in January 2018; fanning the flames of war in Syria. This was an operation named ‘Olive Branch’. The Labour Party (EMEP) has always been critical of this intervention in […]

What were the negotiations with the German monopolies and Erdoğan’s government?

One of President Tayyip Erdoğan’s priority objectives of the visit to Germany is to attract more German investments in Turkey. Which compromises and commitments took place in Erdogan’s interviews with the German monopolies providing investing more in Turkey? Getting economic relations back on the track and attracting more German direct investment to Turkey was at […]

10 questions about Syria to President Erdoğan

We have 10 questions about Syria to President and AKP Leader Tayyip Erdoğan, who argued, they did not do anything wrong in Syria. The president and AKP leader Tayyip Erdoğan, in assessing the agreement he made with Putin in relation to the Idlib issue during the parliamentary group meeting of his party the previous day, […]

EMEP: New Economic Plan is the proof of a plan to make the public pay for the crisis

EMEP Chairwoman Selma Gürkan: New Economic Plan (NEP) creates new opportunities for monopolies and poverty for the people. “President Tayyip Erdoğan and many government representatives deny the crisis triggered by the drop in the value of Turkish Lira, as “foreign manipulation”, saying “there is no crisis, there is psychological problems”. But the New Economic Plan […]

Putin has given Erdoğan a new task by ‘honouring’ him

We can assert that Putin has gifted Erdoğan the feeling of a small success which will only prove to tie into his own success in the long run. We had witnessed how Russia, Iran and Turkey had wanted to walk along the same line by espousing different positions in the summit on Idlib they held […]

British trade unionists urge Turkish government to release construction workers

Several trade unionists in Britain called on the Turkish government to release 24 workers who protested for their basic rights, including edible food. Arif BEKTAŞ London Several trade unionists in Britain including RMT, UNITE, BFAWU and TSSA called on the Turkish government to release 24 workers, who protested for their basic rights, including edible food, […]

‘An injury to one is an injury to all’

Unite supports exiled Kurdish journalist Following its support of a TUC Congress motion against the authoritarian tactics of the Turkish government, Unite has spoken in support of a young Kurdish journalist who is exiled in London after her home was raided by Turkey’s authorities. Under the county’s dictatorial president Recep Tayyip Erdogan the state has […]

Hayatın Sesi TV owner and managers charged with 3 years and 9 months imprisonment

The owners of Hayatın Sesi TV, Mustafa Kara and İsmail Gökhan Bayram and General Director Gökhan Çetin, charged with 3 years, 9 months imprisonment. The owners of the Hayatın Sesi TV, Mustafa Kara and İsmail Gökhan Bayram and General Director Gökhan Çetin, charged with 3 years and 9 months imprisonment with claims that they have been […]

24 workers arrested over protests at new İstanbul airport site

A Turkish court has arrested 24 workers after protests over labour conditions at the construction of İstanbul’s new airport. A Turkish court on Wednesday ordered 24 workers and union activists to stay in jail after they were detained in a mass crackdown over protests on working conditions at İstanbul’s new airport. WHAT HAPPENED? Police and […]

Economy of Turkey is heading for a crash

Prof. Dr. Mustafa Durmuş: No matter what you do, there is no chance of this economy to grow like before, we are headed towards a big crash. One US dollar was 3.40TL in September 2017 and today it is around 6.40TL. Inflation in August reached 18%, the highest level in 15 years, and experts say […]

Saturday Mothers subject to police violence on 700th week of vigil for disappeared loved ones

Saturday Mothers subject to police violence on 700th week of vigil for disappeared loved ones                           On the 700th week of one of the longest running peaceful protests in Turkey, the Saturday mothers and their supporters congregated in Galatasaray Square at midday. Across Europe solidarity vigils were held to support the demands of the Saturday mothers and […]

Is Trump responsible for the situation of Turkey’s economy?

Trump cannot be held responsible if a country’s leader cannot find any example to turn to when he talks about ‘domestic and national goods’. I stated before that, there will be sharp decreases in the value of Turkish Lira (TL) beginning in autumn, and the government will head to the local elections with a quite […]

Worthless isolation!

Erdoğan and his rulership brought the country to the economic and political crisis and ruin and worthless isolation. Having attempted in 2011 to become the leading country in the intervention in Syria, and becoming enemies with its neighbours, Turkey was also abandoned by imperialist powers that initially supported this policy. At the time, to cover […]

Can we be on the same ship?

What the labourer people and the workers should do is to stop thinking of someone else’s ship, but to own themselves and their own future On ordinary days no one speaks of the ship. Or when the ship is mentioned, the debate goes on another direction. Remember. There was a ship debate once in a […]

In 7 questions, what is new ‘Presidential System of Governance’ of Turkey?

What are the powers of Tayyip Erdoğan who was elected as the first president of the new system on 24 June 2018? How will the government take form? What is “Presidential System of Governance” which was brought about by the election on 16 April 2017? What are the powers of Tayyip Erdoğan who was elected […]

Questions of the post-election period, concerning foreign policy

One of the important questions of the post-election period is foreign policy… Where is Turkey to steer towards? With the ending of election period in Turkey, the road is now paved for the presidential system. In the new system, most of the function of the Assembly is due to be slashed with the office of […]

The rulership of the losers

Regardless of what the figures say about the results; this is in fact the rulership of those who lost and are destined to lose. Historical examples have shown that a weak rulership is more oppressive and aggressive. A ruler that dresses every word with the clatter of chain and sword, the sound of guns and […]

Call from the EMEP to struggle against ‘one-man’ regime and it’s new attacks

The Labour Party (EMEP) called for the struggle to establish a new state order on the basis of a constitution, securing democratic rights and freedoms The Labour Party (EMEP) Executive Board (GYK) assessed the results of the June 24th elections. During the two-day meetings, the election process, the election day, and the events that followed […]

Erdoğan’s Coup Against Democracy – the struggle continues.

Following Sunday’s presidential and parliamentary elections Turkey has moved into a dangerous period of one-man rule, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan taking on unprecedented powers as the country shifts from a parliamentary democracy to an executive presidency. The role of prime minister has been deleted and Erdogan can now appoint ministers, the judiciary and set […]

What do the first results of the 24 June election show?

İhsan Çaralan analysed the winners and losers of the June 24th elections in Turkey. The “raid election” for deputy and presidency on 24th June resulted in the Erdoğan’s and the AKP-MHP alliance’s win. In the election, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan got 52.4 per cent of the votes and Muharrem İnce got 30.8 per cent. So, Erdoğan […]

Erdoğan’s A, B, C plans

People are saying that there will be a repeat of the terror environment after the 7 June elections, and repetition of the elections like on 1 November HDP was revealed as the real reason for the transition to the presidential system. With 80 MPs and the number of MPs projected to grow, it was assumed […]

An election ploy against Qandil?

All facts point to the same direction about the reasons for the championing of the Qandil operation by the government: Operation to win the elections! In the background of the decision to have a raid election on 24 June were government calculations to save itself before both the nationalist wave generated by the Afrin operation […]

Look at the ‘Afrin victory’ now!

While the picture in Afrin is so clear, let’s ask this question: Do you still believe Turkey was the winner in Afrin? 4 months ago, the Afrin operation was brought by the government as the “national survival” problem of the country and the operation was initiated in a “national mobilization” atmosphere. Such an atmosphere was […]

Some crucial points while going to June 24

During uncertain times like today, vast media monopoly in the service of the ruling power makes it much more difficult to get a clear picture. Despite the turbulence of serious economic problems in Turkey, prior to the June 24 elections, the observed political response to the situation and interpretations on the street do not reveal […]

Why are the 24th June elections important?

The accepted shared formula of the election propaganda is that ‘these are the most important elections of the Turkish Republican history.’ The accepted shared formula of the election propaganda is that “these are the most important elections of the Turkish Republican history.” What renders the 24th June elections so important is the ambition to facilitate […]

The AKP-MHP alliance plans may be shattered

We can thwart the AKP-MHP alliance calculations and reveal the carelessness of the ‘National Alliance’. Presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party(HDP), Selahattin Demirtaş’s attorneys’ application for release was rejected by the court. The court rejected the application stating that “at this stage, the conditions of the legal control would be insufficient”. In this way,  […]

Opposition to Erdogan in Britain is growing

Erdogan’s visit to the UK is an opportunity to whitewash his government’s dire human rights record and detract attention from Turkey’s increasingly authoritarian anti-democratic politic. Without international pressure Erdogan will continue unhindered, using the state of emergency and the anti-democratic decrees to maintain his authoritarian rule. The purge of public sector workers, clamp down on […]

Will robots celebrate May Day?

If the robots have been exploited by capitalism, will they attend May Day marches for that reason? An interesting caricature appeared on Süddeutsche Zeitung, one of the most prominent newspapers in Germany. In this caricature by Oliver Schopf, four robots are marching with a May Day banner. One of the robots appear to be holding […]

Selma Gürkan: Halting the ‘Presidential Alliance’ is the first step towards democracy

’24th June is a critical point in strengthening the one-man regime. It is important that HDP surpasses the electoral threshold to stop this advance.’ Serpil İLGÜN Those that will be running against Erdoğan in the Presidential election and which parties will enter alliances in the parliamentary elections were decided within the last week. As expected, […]

More than a million people tweeted to say ‘enough’ to President Erdoğan

More than a million people tweeted to call time on President Tayyip Erdoğan on Tuesday, making the word ‘Tamam’ (Enough) a trending topic worldwide. More than a million people tweeted to call out President Tayyip Erdoğan on Tuesday, making the word ‘tamam’ (meaning ‘enough’) a trending topic worldwide after he said, “If one day our […]

Let’s reject the one-man regime with enthusiasm of May Day!

The people who came together around the values of May Day clearly stand opposed to a ‘one party, one-man regime’. Workers all over the world, from Tokyo to Paris, Sydney to Havana declared not just their demands against capitalist exploitation but also protested imperialist war ambitions. Of course 1 May 2018 was also celebrated in […]

Hayatın Sesi TV case postponed to September, 19

The case of Hayatın Sesi TV, which was shut down based on a Decree of Law issued under the State of Emergency has been postponed to 19 September.   The fourth hearing of the Hayatın Sesi TV, accused of propagating for ISIS, PKK and TAK, took place on Tuesday. Birol Sarıkaş, President of Cam Keramik- […]

Raid election might turn into a nightmare for the ‘two party coalition

It is very clear that the AKP-MHP partnership has been preparing itself for an election since last year with a ‘raid election plan’. Just hours after the “raid election” election was declared by the Erdoğan – Bahçeli coalition, the state of emergency was prolonged for another 3 months by the Turkish Parliamentwith the support of […]

Another ‘election crisis’ with Europe?

Tensions with Europe are rising again in the build-up to the election. Germany, Austria and Netherlands will not permit election campaigns. The election campaign and voting in the Turkish elections, to be held on 24 June, is again planned to start with Germany and other European countries. Approximately three million voters originating from Turkey have […]

Cumhuriyet’s 14 journalists and executives sentenced to jail

The court sentenced 14 journalists and executives from Cumhuriyet newspaper to various prison terms over terrorism-related charges. The 27th High Criminal Court of İstanbul on Wednesday sentenced 14 journalists from Cumhuriyet daily to various prison terms over terrorism-related charges. Cumhuriyet Editor-in-Chief Murat Sabuncu, CEO Akin Atalay, and Orhan Erinc, plus journalists Ahmet Sik, Aydin Engin, […]

Selahattin Demirtaş’s defence and Turkey’s trial with peace

Demirtaş’s trial and his defence is very important and should not be lost within the wide range of other ongoing issues. At a time when Turkeys, ‘security’ policies are aimed at decimating the limited freedom that is left in the country, the century-old Kurdish Question is going through a critical period in terms of its […]

EMEP: The government is once again trying to deceive the people

EMEP Chairwoman Selma Gürkan: We call on the working class and all other oppressed and exploited classes to teach a lesson to the Government. The statement released, regarding the decision to go to a snap election on 24 July, from Selma Gürkan, chairwoman of EMEP, read: “Turkey entered a hurried election period with a decision […]

Turkey to hold early elections on 24 June, says President Erdoğan

President Tayyip Erdoğan announced early elections in Turkey on June 24, 2018. President Tayyip Erdoğan announced early elections in Turkey on June 24, 2018. Erdoğan says the legal process for early elections, including preparations by Supreme Electoral Council, to begin immediately. Erdoğan made this announcement after he met with his ally, Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) […]

EMEP: Troubled government seeks a solution in early election

EMEP Chairwoman Selma Gürkan criticised MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli’s call for early elections: Troubled government seeks a solution in early election. Labour Party (EMEP) Chairwoman Selma Gürkan criticised Erdoğan’s ally, Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli’s call for early elections. Selma Gürkan’s statement is here: “Call for an early election made by government partner […]

Nationalist Movement Party leader Devlet Bahçeli called for early elections

Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli called for early elections on Aug. 26, 2018. Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli called for early elections on Aug. 26, 2018. “It should be known that the MHP wants early elections after the adjustment laws are enacted,” said Bahçeli, speaking at the party’s parliamentary group on […]

EMEP: We condemn the attacks on Syria initiated by the US, Britain and France

Labour Party: These attacks aim to materialise their imperialist interests in Syria and in the Middle East, and they target the peoples of the region. The Labour Party (EMEP) condemned the attacks on Syria initiated by the US, Britain and France. EMEP’s statement is here: “In the early hours of Saturday, 14th April, the US, […]

Can Turkey really be allied with both Russia and USA?

Turkey, which is allied to Russia in Afrin, is working with the USA in Ghouta. Can Turkey really ally itself with Russia and USA? The power struggle within the “fields” of Syria between USA and Russia is spreading with aggression. The aggression does not stop with the exchange of words, it is spreading throughout the […]

Where in the War is Turkey?

One of the questions that arise at this juncture is the kind of position Turkey will take on the face of a possible conflict between US and Russia.   Tensions escalated following the claim that the regime forces conducting an operation against jihadist groups have used chemical weapons in Eastern Ghouta in Syria have brought […]

Turkey detained 11 people over social media posts

At least 11 people were detained across Turkey over social media posts on the charge of ‘propagandising for an illegal organisation’. Social media users including the Labour Party (EMEP) executives and the Federation of Opinion Clubs (FKF) members were detained on charge of “propagandizing for an illegal organisation” in a raid launched this morning in […]

Creating your own Afghanistan

Who can argue that the jihadi group placed (by Turkey) on the borders does not or will not pose a risk in the future? A few days ago, some agencies reported on an agreement that the most important radical Islamist group Jaysh al-Islam in East Ghouta (Army of Islam) would relocate to Jarabulus which is […]

English PEN: Freedom of expression in Turkey is in jeopardy

English PEN presents a report on the situation of freedom of expression in Turkey and engages in a critical evaluation of the violation of the rights. English PEN launched a report, ‘Turkey: freedom of expression in jeopardy. Violations of the rights of authors, publishers and academics under the State of Emergency’. Researched and written by […]

What does the sale of Doğan Media Group mean?

Evrensel Editor-in-chief, Fatih Polat, assesses the sale of Doğan Media Group to the Demirören Group, known with its ties to the government. The sale of Doğan Media Group to the Demirören Group is of critical import in many respects within the field of media. The tension in between President Erdoğan and this group, reflecting media […]

Turkey’s largest media group changes ownership in one day

The whole of the Doğan Media Group owned by Aydın Doğan (including CNN Turk, Posta Daily and Channel D) has been sold to Erdoğan Demirören. The flagship of the Turkish press, Hurriyet Daily, has been sold to a group close to the AKP government. But the sale is not just limited to Hurriyet, the whole […]

Turkish Parliament approved new law to regulate online broadcasting

The Turkish Parliament approved a new law giving the Turkish Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK) the authority to regulate all kinds of internet broadcasting. According to the new legislation, all broadcasters that want to provide radio, television, and other types of broadcasting services on the internet will have to obtain a licence from RTÜK, […]

Hundreds of thousands celebrate Newroz in Turkey

Hundreds of thousands of people celebrated Newroz in towns and cities across Turkey, including Diyarbakır, İstanbul, Van and İzmir. People gathered in Van, Urfa, Cizre, Nusaybin, Mardin, Siirt, İstanbul, İzmir and the Turkish capital of Ankara, among other cities, marking the holiday. Celebrations in some towns and cities, including Kars, Ağrı, Iğdır, Muş, Doğubayezit, Derik, […]

EMEP Chairwoman Selma Gürkan: Discussion on unity should be focused on demands

We talked the 2019 elections and the discussions on alliances with the Labour Party (EMEP) Chairwoman Selma Gürkan. AKP [The Justice and Development Party] and MHP [Nationalist Movement Party] declared that they will enter the elections in 2019 as a ‘Presidential Alliance’; this led to an escalation in the attempts to introduce legal changes to […]

Imperialist infighting in Syria and the fall of Afrin

Perhaps, I should start with what should be said at the end. Just as the start of the military operation in Afrin cannot be explained by the determination of Turkey, the withdrawal of the Kurdish forces from Afrin and the fall of Afrincannot be explained by the situation of the Kurds alone. The struggle for […]

Police detained medics for speaking against Afrin offensive

  Administrators and members of Turkish Medical Association (TTB) who were pointed as a target by Turkish President Tayyip Erdoğan for calling for peace against Afrin operation have been detained. Turkish police conducted raids on the homes of 11 administrators and members of TTB, including TTB President Raşit Tükel and members of TTB Central Council. […]

StWC & SPOT Statement: Oppose Turkey’s attack on Afrin

On Saturday, 20th January, Turkish war planes launched air strikes on Afrin, one of the three Kurdish cantons in Northern Syria. We oppose all outside intervention in Syria, from whatever side. We see this latest intervention as one which can only worsen the situation, while in particular targeting the Kurdish YPG. We note that the […]

Solidarity with Afrin – Take Action Now

Urgent call for the people of UK, politicians, trade unionists, campaign groups, democrats, intellectuals and all those who side with peace, freedom and justice to take immediate action to protest the bombing of Afrin. Background On Saturday, 20th January, Turkish war planes launched air strikes on Afrin, one of the three Kurdish cantons in Northern Syria. A ground […]

Long Live International Solidarity

We are pleased to announce that Solidarity with the People of Turkey (SPOT) and Academics for Peace – UK (BAK-UK) organised a fantastic fundraising event at the NEU /  NUT Head office on 23rd November. The event was attended by more than 100 people including academics, teachers, trade union representatives and political activists.  There were speeches from […]

We stand with the Alevi communities in Turkey

We stand with the Alevi communities in Turkey Last week members of the Alevi community in Turkey’s Malatya province voiced concerns after, at least, 13 houses were marked with red cross by “unknown” individuals. Red crosses marked with red paint were spotted on the outside walls and doors of several households belonging to Alevi people […]

SPOT: FREEDOM FOR YUSUF KARATAS

Press freedom and democracy are under attack in Turkey. The situation has intensified since last years failed coup attempt. A third of the worlds total jailed journalists are in Turkish prisons and many  newspapers and media outlets have been closed down by the government. Legitimate organisations including the Democratic Society Congress (DTK)- which operated freely […]

Academic Boycott of Turkey

DO NOT BE A PARTY TO CRIMES IN TURKISH HIGHER EDUCATION A group of academics are calling on all institutions of higher education, funding councils, academic and professional associations, and individual faculty members to boycott the Turkish higher education system. The aim of the academic boycott is to put pressure on government so that all dismissals are […]

SPOT: We will not be divided

As Solidarity with the People of Turkey campaign group we are horrified by the terrorist attack on young concert goers in Manchester on Monday nightand condemn those responsible. We would like to send our condolences to those who have lost their loved ones and to the injured. The hard work and courage of the emergency […]

How the “dream” summit became the summit of “fractures”

Evrensel / Ihsan Caralan The “Trump–Erdogan” Summit which took place the previous day, described by president Erdogan as a milestone, lasted for only 20 minutes. If we consider that this dialogue included the need for translators between the two, there remains a maximum of 5 minutes each to discuss important issues between Erdogan and Trump. […]

The Turkish teachers are on hunger strike for 73 days

A Turkish academic, Nuriye Gulmen and primary school teacher Semih Ozakca, have been on hunger strike in Ankara for the last 73 days to protest against their dismissal by the government. They are among the more than 150 thousand public workers who were dismissed from their jobs by government decrees following the failed coup attempt […]

Turkey seeks arrests at opposition newspaper Sozcu

Turkish authorities have issued arrest warrants for the owner and three employees of the opposition daily Sozcu. The office of the newspaper was raided yesterday. Officials accuse the newspaper of supporting people allegedly involved in last July’s failed coup. The newspaper is accused of having ties to the so-called “Hizmet” movement led by the self-exiled […]

The role given to Turkey: to be the protectorate of jihadists

10 May 2017 Unfortunately, Turkey is doing the opposite of what it needs to do. Maybe before even it realises what troubles this might bring. Fehim ISIK In Syria, we have moved onto the stage of delicate calculations. Proxy wars waged by use of various organisations have for some time been replaced by those who […]

14,000 TL fine for news in Evrensel

Evrensel newspaper’s ex-editor in chief Vural Nasuhbeyoglu and ex-publisher Mehmet Arif Kosar were each served with 7 thousand Turkish Liras. Meltem AKYOL İstanbul Journalists have been swamped with imprisonment and fines just 2 days after President Tayyip Erdogan’s announcement that they fully defend freedom of expression. Evrensel newspaper’s ex-editor in chief Vural Nasuhbeyoglu and ex-publisher […]

Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Kaboglu: Individual, party and state are merged

Why was the President Erdogan re-joining his party and the judicial restructuring prioritised? What should we expect in 2019? Serpil İLGÜN Work on the restructuring of HSYK (Supreme Council of Judges and Prosecutors) as HSK (Council of Judges and Prosecutors), one of the first articles brought to TBMM (the Turkish Parliament) following the referendum on […]

Erdoğan-Trump meeting interpreted by political analysts from Turkey

(Evrensel, 16 Mayıs 2017) Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and US President Donald Trump had their first face to face meeting on Tuesday, 16 May. This is how political scientists Sinan Birdal, Sezin Öney and Fatih Yaşlı interpreted this meeting. ‘Aim of this visit was to be photographed together’ Sinan BİRDAL – Guest Associate Professor […]

What does the New Hamas Line mean?

08 May 2017 Chairman Khaleed Mashaal announced the new political programme of the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas). Why is a change in line? Kamil Tekin SUREK First the new Charter was introduced on 1 May, followed by the change in Political Leadership. Despite the Hamas leadership statement that the changes were a result of long-term discussions, […]

“A homeland that wants to kill us”

30 years ago, I was a leftist university student, living in exactly the same house that I am living now, then with my mother. I remember how much my mother would be worried each time our doorbell rang from downstairs. Neither her nor I were feeling safe in our own house. And the threat came […]

People feel unsafe in the area, says Diyarbakir Human Rights Association

Serpil Berk, Diyarbakir Raci Bilici, the Chairman of the Diyarbakir Human Rights Association (IHD) evaluates the human rights violation report for the first quarter of 2017. In the past few days the Diyarbakir IHD shared with the public in the regional provinces its report of rights violations that occurred in the first quarter of 2017. […]

The role given to Turkey: being the protectorate of jihadists

(Fehim Işık, Evrensel, 10 May 2017) In Syria, we have moved onto the stage of delicate calculations. Proxy wars waged by use of various organisations have for some time been replaced by those who have designated the proxies. It seems that it is now the time of “correction”, and one of the main issues is […]

NO and Beyond April 16, 2017 Constitutional Referendum Report

No and Beyond was established as an independent citizen organization, to contribute to the creation of a healthy electoral environment, before and after elections against possible infractions of the rules in the April 16, 2017 referendum. No and Beyond received voluntary applications in almost 50 cities and served at the polling place with close to […]

Big, jubilant, mass May Day demos in Turkey despite the state of emergency

(İhsan Çaralan, Evrensel, 02 May 2017) Celebrations were held in many countries yesterday, on May Day, the day of unity, solidarity and struggle of the working class. Workers chanted their demands, claiming the values of May Day and the ideals for a world without  exploitation and wars and for fraternity of humanity as a whole. […]

Leaping backward 13 years in the war of norms

(İhsan Çaralan, Evrensel, 27 April 2017) Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) decided to put Turkey on “political and legal monitoring”. The resolution was passed with 113 votes, with 45 against and 12 abstaining. “The absence of European standards in the functioning of Turkey’s democratic institutions” was presented as the reason for PACE’s […]

Referendum in Turkey: The ‘no’ bloc need to have a programme

Evrensel (24 April 2017) Serpil Ilgun from Evrensel Daily talked to Murat Somer, Associate Professor of Political Sciences and International Relations from Koc University in Istanbul about the Turkish referendum and its social outcomes. Somer: The ‘No’ bloc owes its success to its calm. The results have given them self-confidence and this needs to be […]

REMAINS OF A HIGHLY-DISPUTED VOTE

(Fatih Polat, Evrensel, 19.4.17) Due to its extremely oppressive atmosphere, the very public vote rigging and the unravelling political picture in its aftermath, the referendum of 16 April 2017 has been the most controversial vote in Turkish political history. High Election Council’s (YSK) decision to accept unsealed envelopes and ballots while voting still continued – […]

The referendum and its results are not legitimate!

(Mustafa Yalciner, Evrensel, 18.4.17) Scarcely 51.4% of ‘yes’ vote has been reached! 48.6% said “no.” All the big cities, the industrial regions, with the exception of the city of Bursa and Kocaeli, declared “No, We Will Not Accept a One Man Dictatorship.” Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Adana, Mersin, Diyarbakir… have all said its not possible but […]

Erdogan and the AKP government claim victory in rigged referendum

Approximately 50 million voters headed over to the ballot boxes on 16 April to vote on the referendum for constitutional changes in Turkey. The public were presented with manipulated figures, purporting to show a victory for the Yes vote, equivalent to 51.4% ‘yes’ and 48.6% ‘no’. All big cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Adana, […]

Not even a Pyrrhic victory!

Ihsan Caralan (Evrensel, 17.4.17) The referendum for a constitutional amendment that will take Turkey to a “one party, one man regime” was held last Sunday. Initial reports show a 51.4 “yes” and 48.6 “no” vote. Both the close results and the fact that the two big parties of the “no” camp, People’s Republican Party (CHP) […]

Finding of the international observers. 

The 16 April constitutional referendum in Turkey was contested on an unlevel playing field, and the two sides in the campaign did not have equal opportunities, the international observers concluded in a statement released today. While the technical aspects of the process were well administered, voters were not provided with impartial information about key aspects of the […]

We must stand in solidarity with the people of Turkey.

Steve Sweeney, SPOT Steering Committee member reports from Turkey on the aftermath of the referendum.  I was part of the demonstrations in Besiktas last night where people were opposing the outcome of the referendum result. The result cannot be given any credibility and should not be legitimised. Opposition CHP and HDP have announced they will […]

We will continue our struggle!

Press release and public announcement on the outcome of the referendum in Turkey We will continue our struggle against the shady referendum outcome and one-man rule! This was a referendum held under a state of emergency and oppressive policies. This was a campaign full of inequalities and injustices. As if this was not enough, the […]

Why Should We Support The “No” Vote In Turkey’s April Referendum?

As you know tomorrow is a hugely significant day for Turkey, where citizens are being asked to make a significant decision about the future of their country. The people of Turkey will tomorrow vote on a new constitution which, if passed, will result in the granting of ultimate executive powers to the President and will […]

CONFERENCE: ACADEMIC FREEDOM, AUTHORITARIANISM AND TURKEY

In the face of rising authoritarianism and right-wing populism, academic freedom is under severe threat in contemporary Turkey. Governmental repression on academics became all too apparent when the Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, instigated a campaign of persecution against academics – Academics for Peace (BAK) – who signed a peace petition in January 2016. The […]

Urgent Call for Xerabê Bava by Academics for Peace- Germany & Academics for Peace- UK

As Turkey’s constitutional referendum is approaching, we are, once again, witnessing an intensification of state violence in the Kurdish provinces of Turkey. For more than a week, there has been no communication with the people of Xerabê Bava (Koruköy), a village in Mardin-Nusaybin. The village is under round-the-clock military curfew and there have been claims […]

Academic For Peace Initiative (BAK) seeks international solidarity 

In the last seven months, following the failed coup attempt, nearly 100,000 civil servants have been removed from their posts in Turkey. This includes teachers, police officers, soldiers, academics and lawyers. Among these there have been many academics known for being signatories to the [“We will not be a party to this crime”] peace petition. […]

May Accused of Propping up Erdoğan

LEADING trade unionists have demanded that Theresa May stop selling arms to Turkey, accusing her of propping up one of the world’s most oppressive regimes.The call was made at an emergency press conference on Wednesday night, organised by Solidarity with the People of Turkey (Spot), after a new decree issued under the state of emergency […]

The Press statement by SPOT: DEMOCRACY ON A KNIFE EDGE IN TURKEY

The policies of the AKP government, which have been ruling the country for the last 14 years, have pushed democracy to the edge. The severity of the situation exceeds even the circumstances of the military coup in 1980.By using the failed coup attempt of July 15th as a pretext, the government is arresting and firing […]

Steel worker’s planned strike action denied by Turkish Ministers

The planned strike action by steel workers in Bursa, namely Asil Celik, has been banned for “security reasons” according to the Council of Ministers. However, we believe that the emergency state which has recently been extended is used as a pretext to deny workers the right to protest or strike. The decision by the minsters […]

SPOT delegation visits Turkey

Over the Christmas period we convened a delegation of journalists and activists from the UK. This delegation travelled to Istanbul last week to meet with prominent individuals and groups that are being persecuted for opposing the politics of the ruling AKP government. The delegation, which included journalists from the Guardian, Morning Star, The Telegraph, PEN […]

The failing Turkish economy

The rise in unemployment and the fall of Turkish Lira against the dollar has prompted the president to name those who hold dollars instead of Turkish Lira as terrorists and attacked institutions for not releasing cash into the markets.  In the same breath, without a hint of irony, the president threatens to remove the citizenship […]

The road to dictatorship

A new constitution has been passed by the Turkish Parliament. The new controversial constitution substantially expands the powers of the presidency under Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and removes the office of the Prime Minister. The new constitution, which is expected to be put to a referendum in the spring, is opposed by pro-democracy groups and politicians […]

‘Feel this support and be powerful!’

Özgür Gündem guest editors’ trial adjourned until 21 March 2017   The trial took place today at Çağlayan High Criminal Court, İstanbul of Ahmet Nesin, Prof. Dr. Şebnem Korur Financı and RSF reporter Erol Önderoğlu. The three acted as guest editors in support of the pro-Kurdish newspaper Özgür Gündem in association with which Aslı Erdoğan […]

Prominent journalist Ahmet Şık arrested

Even as extremist groups gain momentum across the country and innocent citizens die at the hands of brutal terrorists, the AKP government intensifies its attacks on democratic rights and freedoms. On 29 December 2016,a prominent investigative journalist Ahmet Sik was arrested over his social media posts. Ahmet Sik was due to join a photo in […]

NY terror attack in Istanbul nightclub

During the New Year celebrations last night, a gunman stormed the well-known Reina nightclub in Istanbul killing 39 people and injuring a further 65. The attacks followed a series of statements in preceding weeks by Turkish officials and ultra-nationalist muslims denouncing Christmas and New Years Eve celebrations as evil and anti-Islamic. Mehmet Gormez of the […]

Delegation to Turkey

The Solidarity with the People of Turkey (SPOT) will be sending a further  delegation to Turkey on 11 – 14 January 2017. The aim of this delegation is to: • meet with prominent progressive individuals and organisations in Turkey, • observe the effects of the ongoing state of emergency, • create wider public awareness in the UK, and […]

Evrensel journalists released

A delegation of representatives including PEN International, Morning Star and SPOT travelled to Turkey last week to observe the trial of two Evrensel journalists (Cemil Ugur and Halil Ibrahim Polat), who faced 15 years in prison and were accused of being members of terrorist organisations following their reporting of a rally in Diyarbakir earlier this […]

Executive Presidential System

Prior to terror attacks in Turkey and following the consensus between AKP and the nationalist party MHP, formal proceedings to introduce the executive presidential system in Turkey have been presented to the parliament. Proposed changes seek to give the president extended executive powers while abolishing the prime ministry.

Two terror attacks in one week

On 10 December 2016 two terror attacks in Istanbul resulted in the death of 46 people and injured 166. On 17 December another terror attack took place, this time in the city of Kayseri, killing 14 people and injuring a further 56. Whilst the relatives of the deceased and the injured were still recovering from […]

BRIEFING – PRESS FREEDOM IN TURKEY

Aysen Guven, Television presenter at Hayatin Sesi TV and arts editor at Evrensel Daily Newspaper. 5 July 2016 Aysen Guven shares her observations of developments in Turkey in relation to press freedom.   In terms of press freedom we are witnessing one of the most difficult periods in Turkey. Everyday someone is put on trial, […]

No to military coup, no to one man rule. Fight for a secular & democratic Turkey

On Friday, 15th July 2016, Turkey witnessed an unprecedented example of a failed coup with more than 300 killed and over a thousand injured. The coup is said to be attempted by a section of officers within the military, judiciary and police. 9,000 people have been arrested and further arrests are expected in connection with […]