What in the World Who is protesting in Turkey and why?
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Mar 26, 2025 Protests have erupted in Turkey following the arrest of opposition leader Ekrem Imamoglu, raising questions about President Erdogan's grip on power. Thousands have taken to the streets, driven by a mix of student activism and calls for democratic reforms. Young voices express their frustration over the state of democracy, highlighting the economic struggles and a mass exodus of talent. Experts discuss the impact of government repression and the shifting political landscape as the country braces for upcoming elections.
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Erdogan's Rule
- Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has ruled Turkey for 22 years, dramatically shaping the country and overcoming numerous crises.
- While still popular, his popularity has waned due to his increasingly authoritarian leadership style, suppression of political opposition, and control over media.
Government Media Control
- Under Erdogan, 90% of national media is under government control, and many privately owned organizations are pro-Erdogan.
- This media control makes it difficult for opposition voices to be heard and contributes to the suppression of dissent.
Imamoglu's Appeal
- Ekrem İmamoğlu, the mayor of Istanbul, is a younger politician with broad appeal across both secular and conservative voters.
- His policies focus on helping low-income citizens, making him a popular figure and a potential threat to Erdogan.