Sami Kent

Sami Kent, a senior producer and Turkish politics expert, joins Ruth Michaelson, a Guardian foreign correspondent in Istanbul, to discuss the eruption of public protests after President Erdoğan's arrest of rival Ekrem Imamoglu. They delve into the parallels with the 2013 Gezi Park protests and explore how Imamoglu's rise symbolizes hope for democracy. They also scrutinize Turkey's political landscape, the public’s response to government crackdowns, and Erdoğan's international maneuvering amid growing unrest.

Sami Kent, a journalist and author of "The Endless Country," joins Hannah Lucinda Smith, a Turkey correspondent for The Times, to explore the rich tapestry of Turkish identity. They discuss the emotional complexities of reconnecting with heritage and the vibrant chaos of Turkey's culture. Personal anecdotes shed light on the resilience of the Turkish people, especially following recent hardships. Kent's unique perspective as someone straddling two identities offers listeners profound insights into Turkey’s past and present.