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?
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Erdogan's Rise
- Erdogan's rise began in Islamist politics, becoming Istanbul's mayor in 1994.
- He was later jailed for reciting an offensive poem, but this only strengthened his resolve.
Consolidating Power
- Erdogan consolidated power by changing the Turkish constitution to strengthen the presidency.
- He suppressed dissent, controlling media and silencing critics, yet the opposition grew.
Loss of Istanbul
- Erdogan lost control of Istanbul to Ekrem Imamoglu three times, a significant political blow.
- This demonstrates a shift in metropolitan Turkey's political alignment.