The Briefing Room
What's happening in Turkey?
Apr 3, 2025
Mark Lowen, a seasoned BBC correspondent, brings insider knowledge of Turkey's tumultuous protests. Joining him is Ziya Meral, an expert on Turkish politics, and Monica Marks, a scholar specializing in Middle Eastern dynamics. Together, they delve into the political upheaval surrounding Istanbul's mayor, Ekrem İmamoğlu, and the implications of his arrest. The discussion reveals the erosion of civil liberties, the rise of a charismatic opposition, and the shifting power dynamics as Turkey approaches pivotal elections. Can democracy survive amidst escalating unrest?
28:46
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Quick takeaways
- The arrest of Istanbul's mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, is widely viewed as a politically motivated move by President Erdogan to suppress opposition.
- Widespread protests in Turkey reflect a growing public demand for political change amidst concerns over rising authoritarianism and eroding democracy.
Deep dives
Erdogan's Rise and Political Maneuvering
Recep Tayyip Erdogan began his political journey in a challenging environment, rising through Islamist politics during a time when such parties faced significant societal challenges. He gained prominence as the mayor of Istanbul, where he implemented transformative changes, leading to widespread support. Despite early popularity and a seemingly democratic approach, Erdogan's governance showed authoritarian tendencies, including a crackdown on press freedoms and the manipulation of opposition parties. His strategy involved altering Turkey's constitution to consolidate power, masking these shifts behind the facade of democratic processes.
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