The Briefing Anti-Erdogan protests continue in Turkey
Mar 24, 2025
Journalist Ruth Michaelson, reporting from Istanbul, dives into the ongoing protests in Turkey sparked by the arrest of Ekrem Imamoglu, the main political rival to President Erdogan. She highlights the demands for democracy and the implications for the upcoming elections amidst a government crackdown on dissent. Ruth also discusses the international reaction to these developments and the potential impact on Erdogan's rule. Plus, brief insights on Brazil-Japan relations and interesting conversations from the ongoing Nordic Happiness Summit.
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İmamoğlu's Arrest and Symbolic Candidacy
- Istanbul's mayor, Ekrem İmamoğlu, was arrested, prompting large protests across Turkey.
- İmamoğlu’s party nominated him for president despite his arrest, and thousands voted in a symbolic primary.
Media Blackout on Protests
- Turkish state-run media ignored the protests, causing opposition parties to retaliate.
- This lack of coverage restricts the opposition's ability to maintain momentum.
Erdogan's Geopolitical Leverage
- Turkey's strategic importance to the US and Europe regarding Ukraine and Syria limits criticism of Erdogan.
- Despite some criticism from France, there is no significant policy pushback due to Turkey's crucial geopolitical role.