A Country in Turmoil: The Arrest That Sparked a Movement

AUTHOR: Kenza Saber

Since March 19, the largest and most powerful protests have been taking place in Turkey after the detention of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, who is facing allegations of corruption right now. Ekrem Imamoglu was expected to run in the 2028 presidential election against President Erdogan, after being nominated by his party as the main opposition figure in the country.

However, the corruption charge against Istanbul’s Mayor was seen by many as politically-motivated rather than being based on credible allegations. That is why widespread demonstrations have erupted across Turkey, involving people of all ages and backgrounds advocating for his immediate, unconditional release and urgent democratic reform.

Brutal Attacks on Peaceful Protesters

Tensions have increasingly grown day after day, especially when the police began to arrest, beat, and use pepper spray, tear gas, and water cannons against those who peacefully express their opinions. Roughly 1133 peaceful protesters have been illegally arrested so far, and just as many or more have reported injuries.

Not to mention that the Turkish government has made concrete efforts to censor social media, with journalists as the main targets. More than 700 accounts of journalists and opposition figures have been blocked, at least nine media workers have been detained, and for 42 hours users experienced less access to social media and news sites.

According to international law, people have a right to protest peacefully and a right to express their agreement or disagreement with the decisions of those in power. However, states should not interfere during protests unless there is a legitimate threat to the safety of others. Although exercising these rights is essential to living in an open, fair, and democratic society, the Turkish authorities have deliberately chosen to suppress these universally recognised rights in order to maintain political control over the country and ensure the presence of one mainstream narrative.

Is this what a democratic country should look like? Obviously not. This undeniable attempt to silence political dissent must end, as must the unnecessary and indiscriminate use of force by the police during peaceful demonstrations. In Turkey, key principles of a democratic society, such as the rule of law, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and the right to protest are under serious threat now.

Silence or Global Action?

Ordinary citizens and the international community must speak out against these human rights violations. Silence is no longer acceptable because it will only push Turkey further away from democracy. As Turkish people fight for their legitimate rights, it is important today more than ever to show empathy, solidarity, and raise awareness on our side.

We must strongly condemn the use of force against peaceful protesters and hold the Turkish authorities accountable for their unlawful actions. Additionally, we must urge the Turkish government to stop media freedom violations and create an environment that allows people to access accurate information at any time.

Because standing up for the right to protest and freedom of speech in Turkey means defending democracy everywhere. Because if we raise our voices together, we can create a better world where everyone is equal and can enjoy fundamental rights. Their fight is not just theirs, it’s ours too.