Battle Lines How Erdogan broke Turkey's democracy
Mar 24, 2025
Raphael Geiger, Istanbul correspondent for Süddeutsche Zeitung, discusses the recent protests in Turkey following President Erdogan's controversial arrest of Istanbul's mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu. Highlighting youth-led movements, he emphasizes the aspiration for democracy amidst governmental oppression. Meanwhile, Henry Bodkin, a Jerusalem correspondent, delves into the political unrest in Israel, sparked by Netanyahu's actions and the firing of Shin Bet's director. This conversation uncovers the alarming erosion of democratic values in both nations.
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Istanbul Protests
- Istanbul protests are the biggest in over a decade after the mayor's arrest.
- There's excitement and uncertainty about potential change.
Youth's Hope
- Young people, who have only known Erdogan as leader, feel this is their moment for change.
- There's a sense that Erdogan's time might be ending, due to lack of economic hope.
Erdogan's Control
- Erdogan maintains support by employing many in the public sector, creating dependence.
- Despite control, there's a feeling he wouldn't win 50% of the vote if elections were held today.